NEED HELP ASAP! - calling all VR6 gurus

[foxxinabox at wideopenwest.com (Foxx (in a box))]

> So I picked up a 97 GLX VR6 Passat in PA.  Flew out there to drive home.  Stopped at my cousins in Pittsburg last night.  Check
> engine light came on during hard rain about 20 mins from their house, but had no impact on drivability.  This morning - no start.
> Cranks fine, but no spark.  Did some troubleshooting (with their limited house tools, ugh).  With some creative mcgyver stype
> jumpering, I bench test the coil pack (works).  So the fault lies somewhere before the coil pack (not getting signal).  I've checked
> all under-dash fuses and all harness connections I could easily get to, including the computer (rain tray).  Everything seems fine.
> 
> Anyhow, I have no technical background with the VR6 and cant find schematics anywhere online.  Has anyone troubleshot these at all?
> I'm basically stuck about 14 hours from home because of some (likely) minor issue that's preventing spark trigger.  I basically need
> to know where to take readings for troubleshooting.
> 
> Thanks in advance for any assistance.
> 912-227-2081
> Al

   Check the engine speed sensor / crank position sensor. Had a similar 
problem on the '94 Passat after cold, wet weather. Coil was fine and the 
car would turn over but no spark. Replaced that in about five minutes 
and was good to go. Had to get it from the stealership, though. Good luck.