Mariner 25HP

[ncreappraiser]

I was given a Mariner 25HP outboard and the "friend" that gave it to me said that it had a skip at speeds. He said someone told him that the coil was breaking down or cracked. I looked to see if it was arcing against the motor last night but saw nothing. Is there any way to check the coil with a meter wihtout having to use trial and error?

Also any clue as to the year? The plate says Mariner 25CS 695 S 005641

**Edit to add that this motor was made in Japan (Yamaha?)**

Thanks, Richard