Hello again,
I finally couldn't stand it any longer and went ahead and hooked up  the spare coil.   Still not getting a spark.
I took a look at the distributor and didn't like what I found.   The mechanic who 
FORMERLY worked on my van left it in a mess.  There was some sloppy soldering in there and the Hall sender wiring for the connector was glued in place.  This whole shebang was beginning to deteriorate and the works were full of crud, bits of sealant, dust, grime and gunk.  The dust cover was missing, as well.
The old coil and the spare coil both  tested the same for resistance between terminals. 
I plan on getting doing the Hall sender checks tomorrow and getting a new distibutor.
I am still suspicious about the timing of this problem.  
Van was idled up for coolant bleed with valve gauge feelers at the throttle switch.
Engine was on the warm side, radiator fan running.
I will check relays, as well.
Any other ideas? Advice? Encouragement??
Thanks
Dan Hall
'86 Westy
Alabama