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Discussion Topic:
testing coils
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fenbach |
01-28-2016 @ 10:18 AM
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Member
Posts: 227
Joined: Dec 2009
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anyone know how to test coils for strength/condition? something more than just measuring the resistances. for example, I have a bench rig and can observe the size of the spark but don't know how to tell if a coil will hold up in use. do coils get weak?? or just flat out fail? also, among other things, the spark from a '37 coil appears stronger than from a '36 flat top. is a '37 coil better?? thanks, as always.
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40 Coupe |
01-29-2016 @ 4:50 AM
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Senior
Posts: 1679
Joined: Oct 2009
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The 37 coil is not better than the 36 flat top. resistance is about the only home test but because they do go thermal heat the coil and retest. Also heat the ignition condenser and test it. The true test is to measure the secondary voltage while the coil is in operation, this can be done on a distributor machine, with the proper equipment. Jim Lindner AKA (Bubba) on the fordbarn.com web site is good also Skip Haney who rebuilds coils.
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TomO |
01-29-2016 @ 6:41 AM
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Senior
Posts: 7256
Joined: Oct 2009
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If you can see the size of the spark on your bench rig, the only thing you need to do is do a heat test. My Snapon coil tester does the heat test by just running current through the coil for 5 minutes by bypassing the vibrator. A good coil should give at least a 1/2" steady blue spark before and after the heat test.
Tom
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