how do i diagnose a distributor problem?

Is there a way to test it? I had my engine cut out and start smoking...I know the cap/rotor hasnt been changed in awhile, how can I check to see if its just that? or more problems below it? any ideas? thanks

Is there a way to test it? I had my engine cut out and start smoking...I know the cap/rotor hasnt been changed in awhile, how can I check to see if its just that? or more problems below it? any ideas? thanks

Throw on a timing light