The Lightning Energizer system is completely independent of the stator, there are no interconnections between. Now, on the ADI systems, the low and hi speed stator windings live in the stator alongside the alternator windings. So, it's possible to have some effect on a malfunctioning ADI system when disconnecting the rectifier.
I see no possibility of affecting a Lightning Energizer ignition system by disconnecting the rectifier. Be sure to disconnect the "mercury" switch (actually full of the metal mercury) when checking for spark.
Disconnect the ignition kill wire from the switchbox when testing for spark; this eliminates a bad ignition switch.
Disconnect the distributor wires from the switchbox and take resistance readings of the high and low speed coils.
Note that the most common cause of a dead L.E. system is a bad switchbox, but I suppose it'd do to check the ign coil for problems before condemning the switchbox. If you have a DVA adapter you can check voltages in the system with your VOM.
Here's a cheap adapter:
http://www.usatoolwarehouse.com/usatoolwarehouse/ESI-640.html
Last thought, it's also possible for the distributor rotor to fail,and you may need to remove the distributor, ground the casing, and spin the distributor shaft CW (as viewed from the top), to see if you get spark to ground off the rotor shaft (you'll have to pull the dist cap and remove the rotor for access to the shaft).
HTH & let us know what you find...........ed
