what size diode do I need

[69a]

Originally Posted by Mart

Would it be simpler to use a relay to achieve the same goal?
Is this a band aid to try and overcome a problem elsewhere?
Millions of Fords started without a hot wire jump, why would we need one now?
Not knocking it, just curious as to why one would be required.
Mart.

All your MKIII Cortinas used a 6V coil wired through a resistor, and a hot wire from the starter solenoid. So you got 12 to the coil while you were cranking the starter and 6V for the rest of the time. The hot wire with a diode is a brilliant idea.

[petehoovie]

Originally Posted by 69a

All your MKIII Cortinas used a 6V coil wired through a resistor, and a hot wire from the starter solenoid. So you got 12 to the coil while you were cranking the starter and 6V for the rest of the time. The hot wire with a diode is a brilliant idea.

This "hot wire" ckt. is especially useful when you have a weak battery...

[rockfla]

Originally Posted by petehoovie

This "hot wire" ckt. is especially useful when you have a weak battery...

Petehoovie


My Optima is up to 6.4V. It seems to "initially" spin the motor a little better SO my plan IS to use it in conjunction with my wet cell via jumper cables for starting.....I've pulled my battery out of the Mercury for my "jumper" power source AND IF need be I have a 12V battery I can swap my jumper cables to and go directly to the starter with that to get it spinning!!! Thoughts???