The factory service manual has a section called "Theory of Operation" on the ignition components. It describes in detail the part each component plays in the operation of the ignition system.

It has a troubleshooting guide and information on testing ignition output and individual components of the ignition.

Some special test equipment is necessary to test the ignition components.

Your ignition system consists of a stator, optical timing sensor and timing wheel, flywheel, power pack assembly, ignition coils, plug wires, plugs, ignition switch, shift switch and wire harness on the engine and the one between the key switch and engine. The stator contains two charge coils to produce ignition voltage plus a power coil to operate QUICKSTART & SLOW.