I got a voltmeter but dont know how to test the coil on my 96 TA..anybody know? Because Auto Zone doesnt!

 

Most auto stores sell a spark tester; it's basically a wire with an adjustable gap. A good spark should be able to jump a large gap (I believe it's about 3/4", but verify). You can connect the output of the coil to the spart tester which then connects to ground and verify the spark can jump the gap.

 

If you just want to see if the coil is making any voltage you can just take a plug out and hold it near something metal then have someone try to start the car. Should get lots of blue sparks so watch your hands. Just a quick test to make sure coil is doing something.

 

I've seen coils fail that will still produce a spark, just not a hot enough spark. I found this out the hard way after ruling out the coil, then replacing a perfectly good opti

 

OK people...... so i replaced the coil today, and started cranking. It popped once or twice, but oterwise did nothing different. So I gues Ill go back in after my opti and see if there is anything out of place, if not then ill check the timing chain (it keeps being suggested). There is pressure in the line when i turn the key but ill check actual pressure tomorrow. Still open to other suggestions.