One quick test for a capacitor is to use an analog meter. Place the probes on the terminals of the capacitorand watch the needle. It should deflect and slowly fall back to the zero position. Reverse the leads, and you should see the same action. This isn't an accurate test of the capacitance, but will quickly show if the action of the capacitor is there. Also test each terminal against the case for continuity. If you do get continuity between either of the terminals and the case, replace the shorted capacitor.

A better test will involve the use of a meter that has the capacitor test frature. If you don't have this feature on our meter, it isn't necessary to go out and buy one that does, unless, of course, you plan to get into the business--then it would make good sense to add this to your tool bag.