AMC Ignition System Current Flow Test

1. Remove electrical connector from ignition coil.
2. Remove positive and negative leads from coil connector by depressing plastic barbs, which are visible from coil side of connector.
3. Connect a suitable ammeter between coil positive terminal and positive lead, then connect a jumper wire coil negative terminal and a good ground. Place ignition switch in the On position and note ammeter reading.
a. Ammeter should indicate approximately 7 amps, not exceeding 7.6 amps.
b. If current flow exceeds 7.6 amps, replace ignition coil.
4. With ammeter still connected between coil positive terminal and positive lead, connect coil green wire to coil negative lead. Ammeter reading should be approximately 4 amps.
a. If ammeter reading is less than 3.5 amps, check for faulty connections at distributor three wire connector and ignition control unit four wire connector. Also check distributor internal ground screw for poor ground.
b. If ammeter reading is above 5 amps, replace ignition control unit.
5. Start engine and note ammeter reading. If ammeter reading is not between 2 to 2.4 amps, replace ignition control unit.