They usually required only three wires: the spark plug wire, the power wire and the ignition switch wire. Ignition coils of this type are usually a little larger than a soda can and are heavy because of the metal core and the field coil windings.
How do you troubleshoot ignition points?
First check for power to the coil. If you have 12v there, then manually open the points and check for spark from the coil. If no spark, remove the wire from the points and manually “spark” it to ground. If spark, then problem is bad points or condensor.
How do you know if a ballast resistor is bad?
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Ballast Resistor
What happens if the ballast resistor goes bad?
If your ballast resistor is bad, your vehicle will not run and you will have to have it towed to the mechanic’s shop. The biggest sign your ballast resistor is bad is your vehicle will start, but immediately stop as soon as you let go of the key.
How many volts should a coil have?
The voltage reaching the coil may be 12 volts , or about 7 volts if the coil has a ballast resistor . Most electrical equipment works on 12 volts, but most modern cars have a resistor in the ignition system to assist starting. The coil in a ballast-resistor system is rated at 7-8 volts instead of 12 volts.
How do you check voltage on a coil?
Connect your multimeter to the positive terminal or pin of your coil, and to the high output terminal that goes to the spark plug. Most ignition coils should have a secondary resistance falling somewhere between 6,000 to 10,000 ohms;however, refer to manufacturer specifications for the correct range.
What do spark plug wires connect to?
Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. High tension leads or high tension cables or spark plug wires or spark plug cables, colloquially referred to as HT leads, are the wires that connect a distributor, ignition coil, or magneto to each of the spark plugs in some types of internal combustion engine.
Can you change spark plug without changing the wires?
It is not necessary to change the wires but it’s a good idea. Here’s the reason. If your spark plugs have been in the engine too long the component at the end of the plug get’s oxidized over time from having such high voltage run across it to jump a gap and create a spark.
How often do spark plug wires need to be changed?
between 60,000 and 100,000 miles
How do you know when spark plug wires are bad?
Common signs of failing spark plug wires include a decrease in power, acceleration, and fuel efficiency. In addition, the engine light coming on or visible damange to the cables can be signs of a failing wire.
How much does it cost to replace spark plug wires?
The Best in Auto Repair The average cost for spark plug wire replacement is between $168 and $185. Labor costs are estimated between $65 and $81 while parts are priced at $104. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location.
Can I replace my own spark plugs?
Changing spark plugs takes about an hour (for a four-cylinder engine) and will save you at least a hundred bucks in labor if you do it yourself. In most cases it’s a simple job that will help to maintain peak performance and the highest possible gas mileage.
