what is a way to check for spark?

 

remove spark plug from engine, connect it in the plug wire and ground it against the engine where there is no paint to ensure a good grounding. Have someone turn the engine over and you should see it spark. Or you should be able to take the coil wire off of the coil, and put a screwdriver over the hole of the coil and have someone turn the engine over. This method doesn't check wires and plugs though. Be careful not to get hit by that spark , it'll knock your pecker in your watch pocket.