Update, it looks like the spark plugs are the problem (Autolite Platinums someone put in). A helper got brave and pulled the boot off the plug that was missing and it arced regularly to the valve cover metal (the arc jumped about an inch! Now that's high voltage!!!).

Anyways, it sure seems like the coil is ok.. not sure this is a traditional diagnostic but it makes sense to me. Also, I didn't notice much if any change when 3 and 4 were pulled.

So the Autolites out and the Bosch F8DC4s going in.

__________________
-E300d '99 350k
-Suburban '93 220k
-TDI Jetta '03 350k
Sold
-F250 '96 7.3
-Dodge Ram 12V
-E320 '95 200k
-E320 Wagon 1994 155k
-300d Turbo '87 187k miles
-E320 1994 200k
-300d Turbo '84 245k (sold to Dan62)
-300d Turbo '84 180k
-300sd '80 300k
-7.3 Powerstroke Diesel 15P Van 500k+ miles
-190d '89 Non Turbo 2.5 5cyl 240k (my first MB)
Tom's Imports of Columbia MO Ruined the IP in changing leaky delivery valve O-Rings - Refused to stand behind his work. Mid-MO MB drivers-AVOID Tom's.