I am trying to provide useful information. 74slnt6 in first post said it was a 440source distributor with built-in box. This suggests it is most likely a HEI type with a GM "type" module. Without reluctor pulses the dwell should timeout and not power the coil. The test I have suggested will test the output driver in the module. Most power semiconductors fail shorted. Any ignition designed to work without ballast, should power down.
They may likely have a diode, intrinsic or in the circuit with cathode at output anode to ground. In ohm setting diodes are not biased and should appear near open or 100K to megohms, in the diode check function the diode is observed. The diode is seen in mosfet, and IGBT, and Darlington transistor outputs.
I do considerable work making custom uC based power electronics for engine controls for internal combustion, and diesel engines. It is a simple test for a faulted power components.
It is not fool proof since some parts fail with high voltage.
My fear is that if the distributor module is shorted, a new coil may also be damaged.
