Just an update,
Tracking some other threads, I discovered the alternator was shot. Put a new one in, all is great again. But the light still doesnt come on for the plugs. I think this could be because I changed #5 and #1 to test. I think they all need replacing. Fastlane, here I come.
Anyway, the moral of the story: Check the alternator! I think mine's been dead since I bought it 5 months ago -- put a new battery in it and she's run fine all this time!!!
Paul