03-02-2024, 08:57 AM | #1 |
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Klein Tools
I’m looking for a reasonably inexpensive multimeter to carry in my Model A. What do you think of this model, which was recently reviewed in Poplar Mechanics magazine? Is there something on the market that gives a better bang for the buck?
Here is an Amazon.com link for the Klein MM450. https://a.co/d/jdh3A8y Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk |
03-02-2024, 09:07 AM | #2 |
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Re: Klein Tools
Shew01
Tom Endy did an article on a good multimeter, it was a "HONEYTEK" you might look up his article's on their website. It was Model A6013L and I think it was reasonable as far as I remember and the article I think was checking condensers on the Model A. |
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03-02-2024, 09:30 AM | #3 | |
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Re: Klein Tools
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03-02-2024, 09:46 AM | #4 |
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Re: Klein Tools
Digital meters can get upset with the ignition system on a running model A engine.
When I tried my snap on vantage on my running model T it locked up and started crying, had to take out the battery to stop it. When checking the model A charging system the wires had to be extended to have the meter inside the car. |
03-02-2024, 09:55 AM | #5 |
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Re: Klein Tools
Klein is a very well respected manufacturer of tools for electricians, and this multimeter certainly seems to have the capabilities that would apply to work on Model As. I’ve found that it’s often handy, if not essential, to have leads with alligator clips on them so you don’t have to juggle two leads and the meter while squeezing into awkward spaces. Clip leads are readily available separately, for example Klein 69410.
Having said that, almost any multimeter will do you fine. Harbor Fright had an el-cheapo that they used to give away free with any other purchase, I carry one of those in each car. The most important thing is knowing how to properly use the meter and interpret the results. Like, don’t put your probes across a voltage when the meter is set to resistance…
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03-02-2024, 09:57 AM | #6 |
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Re: Klein Tools
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A is for apple, green as the sky. Step on the gas, for tomorrow I die. Forget the brakes, they really don't work. The clutch always sticks, and starts with a jerk. My car grows red hair, and flies through the air. Driving's a blast, a blast from the past. Last edited by nkaminar; 03-03-2024 at 07:57 AM. |
03-02-2024, 10:00 AM | #7 |
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Re: Klein Tools
I'd suggest an analogue meter to carry in your Model A.
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_nkw...SAAEgIvH_D_BwE
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03-02-2024, 10:01 AM | #8 |
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Re: Klein Tools
Confirming the problems with digital multimeters. Buy an analog if you can find one. I have an old Radio Shack model that I use.
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03-02-2024, 10:06 AM | #9 |
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Re: Klein Tools
I just carry a test light in my A, I feel if needed I just want to see if I have voltage here there, I ‘am not concerned if the battery is at 6.4 volts or 6.2
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03-02-2024, 10:14 AM | #10 |
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Re: Klein Tools
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03-02-2024, 10:20 AM | #11 |
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Re: Klein Tools
For a few dollars more you could get a Kaiweets HT208D, which has more features, such as indirect DC amperage, and higher current tolerance.
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03-02-2024, 10:36 AM | #12 | |
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Re: Klein Tools
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The reality was that the indirect would show 17 amps when tested a foot outside the cabinet without and lead thru the current loop. Technology is great if applied correctly, those inexpensive meters are not acceptable for precise work. They are great for the Model A especially if you pack it in the car. J
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03-02-2024, 11:27 AM | #13 |
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Re: Klein Tools
I use a very inexpensive multimeter from Harbor Freight.
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03-02-2024, 12:40 PM | #14 | |
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Re: Klein Tools
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The trick is holding the clamp stationary. If you can get it into position, zero it, and then turn the load on without moving it, the reading is accurate in my experience. If you’re just snapping it over a wire and taking a reading, yeah, you could get anything. I used the HT208D to read the starter amperage on my coupe and got 155A, which is about what you should expect. |
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03-02-2024, 01:52 PM | #15 |
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Re: Klein Tools
What Kurt said. I have an echeapo one with the needle that I got at Harbour Freight under the seat in my car.
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03-02-2024, 03:05 PM | #16 |
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Re: Klein Tools
Hearing a shout out for Harbor Freight el-cheapo! Sign of the times, but the one they used to give away free is now $6.99.
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03-02-2024, 03:31 PM | #17 |
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Re: Klein Tools
Mine is that small one. It's maybe 4 inches tall. Space for storage counts... I have a for real meter at home (a Simpson 260), and other than verifing the battery, and it working I don't think I have ever used it.
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03-02-2024, 05:18 PM | #18 |
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Re: Klein Tools
IMO, the electrics of a Model A are so simple, nothing more than a piece of wire (a probe is better) and a light globe is all you need.
Something like this: https://www.amazon.com.au/Haobase-El...9417865&sr=8-7
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03-02-2024, 08:59 PM | #19 |
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Re: Klein Tools
Sompson 260 is the holy grail of old school multimeters. I had two and somehow lost them during a move.
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03-02-2024, 09:04 PM | #20 |
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Re: Klein Tools
They are like $500 now. Yes, I cherish mine. It's just like new too. I still put it back in a baggie after I use it. I used to make my living as a repair technician, so it was a valuable tool for me. I have an ampprobe that is digital, and does a lot of the same functions, but darn I like that sweeping analog needle. Way easier to check a run capacitor for basic function with that needle.
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