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Old 03-30-2025, 10:19 AM   #1
bobv
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Default Coil and condenser tester

Just found this tester, there are some instructions on it but is there some sort of instruction manual that goes with it?
​​​​​​​If anyone has info they would share I would appreciate it.
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Old 03-30-2025, 07:02 PM   #2
rotorwrench
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Default Re: Coil and condenser tester

The instructions on the unit is all their is. It aids to test intensity of spark on coil in coil test. It aids in basic electrical check of the condenser when in condenser test. The condenser is a capacitor that holds a charge. They are generally tested for capacity, leakage, and resistance using a capacitor tester but a unit like that only tests short term function. What happens when it heats up? It is important to go through a warm up period before testing.
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Old 03-31-2025, 09:38 AM   #3
Gold Digger
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Default Re: Coil and condenser tester

I've got one of those testers but it has been so long ago that I used it I have forgot any details of it. I do remember about what rotorwrench said about when parts heat up and there was mention about how to warm up the parts but I can't remember how it was done.
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Old 03-31-2025, 10:11 AM   #4
bobv
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Default Re: Coil and condenser tester

This info was provided to me, it does help explain. I did find a utube video on using it to test a coil which also shows a method to test when heated up. It's similar to the snap on unit.
Mt640. Coil tester.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2X6LPS2zgUw

Thanks
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Old 03-31-2025, 08:02 PM   #5
midgetracer
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Default Re: Coil and condenser tester

I have a couple of those units, bot they use a viberator tube similar to the old 6V radios. Both of mine had viberators that would not viberate, so my brother made an electronic circuit that replaced the viberator.
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Old 04-01-2025, 06:12 AM   #6
rotorwrench
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Default Re: Coil and condenser tester

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Some aircraft still use starting vibrators for magneto ignition but Slick Start and Shower of Sparks units are too expensive. The spark plug testers also use a vibrator circuit to buzz the coil to life sort of like the old model T trembler coils. A person can make a rudimentary test aperatus by hand cranking a small distributor breaker connected in with a coil, a condenser, and a battery with appropriate jumper leads to form both the low and high tension sides of the circuit.

Warm up for a coil is accomplished by powering it up with points closed for five minutes or so while monitoring the temperature of the coil during the process. Don't do it too long or it can melt the coil.
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Old 04-01-2025, 08:48 PM   #7
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Default Re: Coil and condenser tester

Nice find!
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