Help diagnose an engine stall problem that has vexed me for almost 4 years now

[TimQ]

Again thanks to everyone who pitched in with ideas. As mentioned from the last post, I replaced the fuel filter and ordered a new fuel pump. But, based on feedback, I don't think that is the issue. But, it acted up again today, this time in the driveway and right near the house, so I was able to do some tests. Here's what happened (see top of thread for original details):

I tried starting the truck this morning. It would crank but not start. I gave up when I noticed the battery starting to die. I could smeall gas, which probably means I flooded it suggesting fuel wasn't the problem. Didn'd have time to play then, but. just to be sure I didn't have a weak battery later, I threw the charger on it for a few hours.

After dinner this evening, I tried again and she started right up. Decided to take a test drive and she died after a few hundred yards. I tried to restart countless times over a good 45 minutes. I even tried jumping from another car (thinking maybe the battery wasn't strong enough) but nothing worked.

I then went to my Hanes manual and tried the test for ignition. They suggest pulling a spark plug wire and holding it near a ground to see if you get a consistent spark when someone turns the key. Well, I did that, saw some sparks and the damn engine actually started up on five cylinders.

In typical amateur fashion (and wanting to get the truck out from in front of the neighbor's house) I figured I'd shove the plug wire onto the plug and drive it home before it stalled again. Well, that thought lasted about 2 seconds as I got a nice shock from the wire and yelled to the wife to cut the engine.

I hooked the plug wire back up and had her try again and she started right up. Pulled her into the driveway and since then have started and stopped her 5 or 6 times. Each time she starts right up without even hesitating.

I'm hell bent on trying to fix this myself, but, as you can probably tell, I'm just knowledgable enough to be dangerous. Anyhow, the original tips suggested checking the distributor/ignition and maybe replacing the coil and/or ignition module. So, does this new event rule anything in or out? Any others suggestions?

Thanks in advance.

Tim Q