Hi

The coil (electrically it really is a transformer) is that module with
a chimney looking thing sticking out. The top of the chimney has a
spring on it. When you check for spark, I take it you have something
attached to this spring that is close to ground?

The ignitor is another module below it with four wires on it. Since
you aren't getting a spark pulling the coil's primary to ground, your
ignitor may not be the primary problem -- it could still be bad, but I
would check the coil first.
Someone clever in this honda group (a tech for Honda) mentioned that
one can unhook the transformer, put a light between the output of the
ignitor and 12V -- when starting the car, you should see the bulb
flash if the ignitor is good. I haven't tried it but it seems like a
very legitimate ignitor test.

When testing the coil, if you don't get a spark when you briefly short
the cold primary and do have power, the thing isn't behaving as a
transformer. Btw, don't keep it shorted as that will only create one
spark and may burn out your coil. Just short, let go. My coil had
cracks in the case and it actually arced through its case to the case
of the distributor. Take the thing out and inspect it closely.
Also, a new coil and/or ignitor can be bought a lot cheaper on the net
-- be sure to search for it before you allow the dealer to hose you.

Hope this is of use to you.
Remco

flycivic <UseLinkToEmail@AutoForumz.com> wrote in message news:<418a5b73$1_4@alt.athenanews.com>...
> motsco- yeh the rotor turns no problem with the belt
>
> remcow-when you saw transformer do you mean the ignitor module or the
> coil?
> thanks much for all the help