The Ford Barn

koates · 03-28-2021, 12:26 AM

As I have stated previously you can measure voltages and resistances till the cows come home but to really know what is going on in the coil primary circuit the current draw needs to be measured with the engine not running and dist timing points closed so as to complete the circuit and then with the engine running at idle speed. Use a good quality digital multimeter with a 10 amp capability. Engine not running with ignition switch ON should be 3 to 5 amps. Test quickly so Ign. is not on longer than a minute. Run engine at idle speed and reading should be about 2 amps. If you are in this ball park then all is good. These readings are for both 6 volt and 12 volt systems. Regards, Kevin.

03-28-2021, 12:26 AM	#24
koates Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Melbourne Australia. Posts: 2,219	Re: Ignition Problem or Carb Problem As I have stated previously you can measure voltages and resistances till the cows come home but to really know what is going on in the coil primary circuit the current draw needs to be measured with the engine not running and dist timing points closed so as to complete the circuit and then with the engine running at idle speed. Use a good quality digital multimeter with a 10 amp capability. Engine not running with ignition switch ON should be 3 to 5 amps. Test quickly so Ign. is not on longer than a minute. Run engine at idle speed and reading should be about 2 amps. If you are in this ball park then all is good. These readings are for both 6 volt and 12 volt systems. Regards, Kevin.