Weird spark on start

[Neil Knudel]

First time post. So I got a beat up '79 and have been trying to get it running. Now when I try to kick it over with spark plug in hand and with the spark plug plugged into the ignition coil I get a shock to my hand and a visible arc from the plug. But when the spark plug is held (grounded) against the side of the motor i get no shock or arc. Bought a brand new battery. Was wondering if this could be a problem with the ignition coils?

 

[drewpy]

doesn't sound like there's 50kv through there or you would be swearing about getting a shock.
it really really hurts.

download manual and follow the "check your coils" using a multi meter before buying new coils

 

[BBS360]

Test the ignition coil primary and secondary resistances as described in the manual.
Just speculation but if something is shorted you might be getting the primary voltage shock. Just a couple hundred volts.
No idea about your symptoms though.