'73 Starting Problem

[verlaryder]

My '73 with the 18RC engine was running fine, but suddenly wouldn't start anymore. The engine cranks normally, it just doesn't "catch" and fire up. I shot starting fluid in the carb and still didn't "catch" so it can't be a fuel supply problem. The points and condenser are a fairly new set of genuine Toyota parts and the point dwell was previously set to factory spec of 52 degrees and the ignition timing to 7 degrees. The spark plugs are fairly new NGK BP6ES which have always worked well. Distributor cap, rotor and plug wires are fairly new and installed correctly. So all the tune up parts should be good and adjusted properly. What else might be causing the problem? How do I test for ignition system problems? Could a bad fuse cause such problem (visually they all look OK) ? Thanks for any suggestions.

[RobMilkshakes]

I would check for spark first. Spark testers can be found at most autoparts stores and are rather inexpensive. Or you can just remove a spark plug wire and hold the end close to a good ground on the engine (DONT TOUCH A GROUND, TRY NOT TO TOUCH ANYTHING ELSE IF YOU DO THIS, you should be insulated, but its just a safety precaution) and have someone else crank the engine. You'll see a spark jump the gap. The first thing I would expect if you do not get spark would be the coil.