Spark or no spark?

[heytiger]

I have a 1978 atomic 4 that has had a history of starting problems. By replacing all ignition parts with intermittent success. The engine will start if I hold the coil wire 1/4" to 1/2" from either end of the coil or the cap Will continue to run until I insert the coil wire back in the end I was working at!!!

[Don Moyer]

Interestingly enough, we recently heard of another case of this strange issue and based on a recent posting (http://www.moyermarine.com/forums/showthread.php?t=759) in the Ignition section. The individual changed his spark plug leads and the problem disappeared. I realize that Tim's symptoms were not quite the same, but changing the plug and coil leads cured the problem.

Don