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19Fordy 07-22-2025 08:23 PM

How to test a solenoid
 

3 Attachment(s)
I have several 6V solenoids I would like to test to see if they work.
I want to test them on the workbench as I don't have a 6V car.
I do have a 6V dry cell battery and a 6V/ 12V BATTERY CHARGER.
Also have a digital volt/ohm meter.

Can I use the above equipment and wire them up to see if they are good solenoids? If so, how do I wire them? The solenoids I have are originally 6V with one post and the big BATT and Starter CABLE TERMINALS. The little button on the bottom appears to be for decoration as it cannot be depressed to work. I recall my OEM 1940 Ford solenoid had the bottom button that allowed it to be used to start the car when working under the hood. This solenoid does not have that feature.

Thanks, JIM

petehoovie 07-22-2025 08:38 PM

Re: How to test a solenoid
 

Quote:

Originally Posted by 19Fordy (Post 2401968)
I have several 6V solenoids I would like to test to see if they work.
I want to test them on the workbench as I don't have a 6V car.
I do have a 6V dry cell battery and a 6V/ 12V BATTERY CHARGER.

Can I use the above equipment and wire them up to see if they are good solenoids? If so, how do I wire them? The solenoids I have are originally 6V with one post and the big BATT and Starter CABLE TERMINALS. The little button on the bottom appears to be for decoration as it cannot be depressed to work.

Thanks, JIM

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attac...0&d=1753233569

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attac...1&d=1753233569

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attac...2&d=1753233569

19Fordy 07-22-2025 08:56 PM

Re: How to test a solenoid
 

Thanks Pete. Sure makes a difference.

glennpm 07-23-2025 06:31 AM

Re: How to test a solenoid
 

Would a 6v output 110v input transformer like this one work? You would need one that could handle the solenoid amperage. Note I'm a Mech Engineer and not electrical so Koates, Tubman or a "sparks and arcs guy" could give us some guidance.

"6v output 110v input transformer"

https://www.amazon.com/UPMMUD-Transf...zcF9hdGY&psc=1

Sorry about that

tubman 07-23-2025 08:51 AM

Re: How to test a solenoid
 

That link doesn't work for me.

Terry,OH 07-23-2025 09:03 AM

Re: How to test a solenoid
 

Put your ohmmeter across the Bat and the small terminal and you need to see some minimal resistance (NOT zero ohms or infinite ohms) if so connect the + or - of your dry cell to the Bat and the other polarity to the small terminal. With your voltmeter connected to the second large terminal and the small terminal you should read battery voltage when the solenoid picks up. Digital voltmeter, ohmeter is good.


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