Problem getting a spark when starting

[yakdiver]

Off and on I have problems getting a spark when starting my POS 1990 Accord. Normally it starts right up but every now and then it does not start. I keep trying and eventually I can get it to start in anywhere from a couple of minutes to an hour.

This happened at my mechanics shop the last time I had my car there and he inserted a small instrument in the engine through the opening where oil is poured and this generated a spark when I cranked the engine and it started right up. Does anyone know what instrument this was and if so can I and should I buy one?

Thanks

Note: I am not very car savvy. But I did change the plugs and wires and this did not help my problem.