Voltage testers

I'm having a problem similar to the ones being discussed in the Sportster No Spark thread, and I've come to the obvious conclusion that I need to buy a tester to pin down the problem. There was a local shop that always used to let me borrow theirs, so I never bothered to buy one, but now they're out of business, so I'm on my own.
My question is: What should I look for in a tester? Will any cheapo voltage meter do the job, or is there something specific I should be looking for?

Testers

Essentially, as with all electrical systems and testers, start out small and simple and then advance in cost as needed. I have a small variety set I bought at the local auto parts store that has 4 seperate testers, in all cost about $20.00 It has solved all problems I've encountered so far. Basically, a 12 volt system is a 12 volt system. If you have a load equalizer for miniature bulbs or such you may need something different, but other than that, the bike's system is like a car's. Hope this helps!

A voltage probe is fast, cheap and easy. An inexpensive analog multimeter for voltage and resistance tests. Analog is easier to see dial movement IMHO. A spark intensity probe helps with misfire troubleshooting.

Thanks

Thanks for the advice. I found a meter that looks like it will do what I need. Now comes the hard part--actually finding the problem.

If you haven't already done so, you ought to be able to find a general purpose Volt / Ohm meter for $25 or less. Possibly much less. Sears has an analog one on the web site for $9.99. You do NOT need to spend big bucks for a high end Fluke or Wavetek DMM for the kind of testing and troubleshooting you are going to do on a bike.

I was going to say try radio shack, but they're sucking worse than ever and a brief search of their web site revealed nothing.

Most meters come with basic probes that you have to stick and hold onto the point(s) being tested. It's worth the effort to find a set of clipleads and whatnot so you can attach the meter to the circuit being tested and have your hands free to do other things.

I'm an electronic tech by trade so all this is familiar to me. If I can be of any help I'll be glad to give it a try. I can't help with your particular problem though. Don't mean to sound like a nanny, but if you are unfamilar with testing electrical circuts, remove your rings and watches and whatnot from your hands and wrists. Yeah, it's only 12 Volts but if you get a watch band or wedding ring accross an unfused battery circuit it WILL hurt. Like the smell of burning flesh do ya?

dp