[AT] Well, I guess I didn't really want it to be easy

[Dean VP]

They can be tested this way but passing this test does not guarantee
performance in a real life tractor application. The voltage applied by the
voltmeter does not duplicate the actual voltage spike which occurs when the
points open. A basic test but one that does not really test actual
performance under real life application conditions. These test results can
be very misleading. False negative and false positive results can occur. 

Most condensers (capacitors) only fail under high voltage conditions. The
real purpose of these condensers is to extend point life and if they become
open they will not cause ignition failure, only if they develop a short at
DC or under high voltage spike conditions. A typical voltmeter will not test
properly for these specific application conditions. 

Many are replaced inappropriately when they are operating perfectly. Very
few condensers fail in real life applications. 

Dean A. Van Peursem
Snohomish, WA 98290

"Experience is a series of non-fatal mistakes."

www.deerelegacy.com

http://members.cox.net/classicweb/email.htm


-----Original Message-----
From: at-bounces at lists.antique-tractor.com
[mailto:at-bounces at lists.antique-tractor.com] On Behalf Of Spencer Yost
Sent: Thursday, September 28, 2006 9:09 PM
To: at at lists.antique-tractor.com
Subject: Re: [AT] Well, I guess I didn't really want it to be easy

Condensers can be tested with a simple multimeter.   Place the multimeter
on the resistance setting, the red lead on the "pigtail", the black on the
the metal side of the condenser.   Resistance should start at some
number(where it starts is immaterial).  It will then steadily build until
it reads infinity/pegs the meter.  Anything else and the condenser is bad

Of course, you could replace it as part of a tune-up, but there no reason
to replace it blindly.

Spencer Yost
Owner, ATIS
Plow the Net!
http://www.atis.net

*********** REPLY SEPARATOR  ***********

On 9/28/2006 at 8:54 PM Dean Vinson wrote:

>Or I'd have bought one that was all restored and perfect.
>
...snip...
>Rick has been patiently suggesting I replace the condenser, so that seems
>like next on the list.  Only trouble is I can't figure out how to get the
>
>Dean Vinson
>Dayton, Ohio
>www.vinsonfarm.net


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