RAM 2500 Truck 4WD V8-5.9L VIN Z (1997)
Ignition Coil: Testing and Inspection
Ignition Coil Test
Fig. 13 Ignition Coil - Typical
The ignition coil is designed to operate without an external ballast resistor.
Ignition Coil Resistance
Inspect the ignition coil for arcing. Test the coil according to coil tester manufacturer's instructions. Test the coil primary and secondary resistance.
Replace any coil that does not meet specifications. Refer to the Ignition Coil Resistance chart.
If the ignition coil is being replaced, the secondary spark plug cable must also be checked. Replace cable if it has been burned or damaged.
Arcing at the tower will carbonize the cable boot, which if it is connected to a new ignition coil, will cause the coil to fail.
If the secondary coil cable shows any signs of damage, it should be replaced with a new cable and new terminal. Carbon tracking on the old cable can
cause arcing and the failure of a new ignition coil.
For more information, see Powertrain Management/Testing and Inspection.