Ignition coil bench test

[71-LS6]

Short of substituting it for the coil in a known working system, I don't know. It's kind of hard to haul your car around the aisles at the local swap meet, just to test a coil. One factor that I've encountered with seemingly good coils, is heat. I have had several coils that have dropped off (output wise) as the ambient temperature (underhood) rises. Coils that bench test just fine, but then start to fall down at higher rpm ranges (after engine warm-up) can drive you to drink. If your looking at NOS or good used piece for a project just make sure to buy from a reputable seller. Some of those coils are pretty pricy. Just my 2 cents worth.