Hi Volks,
    The coil in our vans with the exception of the air cooled national
models have little to no current flowing unless there are hall pulses. After
the initial surge of relays / electronics powering up (1-2 seconds)
measuring the voltage with the key on engine off you will read 12 volts on
both sides of the coil, no voltage drop, no coil current, no heat, no power
usage.
    The van air cooled national models and most point / condenser type
systems will warm the coil up if the key is left in the on position with the
engine off if the points are closed (about a 50 percent chance the points
will be closed) .  This current shouldn't harm the coil.
    Many coils test ok but short or open up when operating. If suspect,
install a spare coil.
    Maybe we should be discussing tires or wheels, I thought Gary Sterns tsw
mb6   15 inch wheels were way cool. I think a set would look good on my
double cab.

Midwesty