is my coil bad?
 

I'm running DLIDFIS in a 73 RX-2. Motor is an '80 12A.

Recently the #2 leading plug stopped firing. I swapped out ignitors but that didn't help. Verified the plug and plug wire were good. For now, I just went back to using the distributor cap for everything while I continue to troubleshoot. So the #2 coil is sitting there doing nothing, but the little wires going to the + and - terminals are still attached.

Tonight while driving to the store I decided to pull over and pop the hood to see if there was anything to notice while it was dark out. Sure enough I had a nice firework display. There was a continous stream of electricity going from the + and - terminals of the coil to the large center tower where the sparkplug wire would attach.

Does this mean the coil is cracked or bad? Would this be the cause for it to stop firing the plug?

thanks in advance.

It could definately be the cause of the problem. If it is arcing before the plug it won't fire the plug. As to why it is happening I am not sure. Make sure it has good grounds but if it is doing it on its own then I would think the coil has some issues.