How to test the condenser for the Early Ford V8's

[Paul Dobbin]

I've always carry spare V8 parts on tours, including the ignition condensers.
i think I have 4 old ones but have no idea if they are any good.
Is there an easy way test them to eliminate the bad ones?

[ndnchf]

You really need an old school tester like my Herbrand coil and condenser tester. Here is a short video demonstrating a bad condenser.

https://youtu.be/7thA6UA5kbk?si=NSLxh3fPSt_zmveR

[tubman]

In the last year or so, some reasonably priced multi-meters have become available with an adequate capacitance test function. It's really not so simple though, The condenser has to be tested over a period of time with heat applied.

[drolston]

Or, just put in a Tubman condenser and forget about it.

[corvette8n]

Originally Posted by drolston

Or, just put in a Tubman condenser and forget about it.

+1
I agree.

[Terry,OH]

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

Old original condensers should be considered bad since they degrade with age. To test them properly a test set that uses high voltage for the test should be used and the condenser heated as in use in the engine bay. Condensers that are tested cold and are 10% out of Spec are also bad. Can also do a very basic test with an analog Ohmmeter on high ohms infinity ohms after pointer climbs to the highest reading is considered OK.

[rsellers]

Can someone explain about the Tubman condensers?
Thank you.

[V8COOPMAN]

Originally Posted by rsellers

Can someone explain about the Tubman condensers?
Thank you.

Until the "tubman" jumps in here, they are beautiful pieces of hand-made, yet fully-functional art. Click on the link BELOW for a direct PM to "tubman".

Coop

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/priva...=newpm&u=36688

[Paul Dobbin]

The Tubman condenser will not fit in my 34 Ford Coil. I'm trying not to Jury Rig my cars of possible.

[rockfla]

Originally Posted by Paul Dobbin

The Tubman condenser will not fit in my 34 Ford Coil. I'm trying not to Jury Rig my cars of possible.

Michael at Third Gen Automotive is advertising good condensers for the 32-36 distributors. 844-327-5988 or ThirdGenAuto.com

[tubman]

Originally Posted by Paul Dobbin

The Tubman condenser will not fit in my 34 Ford Coil. I'm trying not to Jury Rig my cars of possible.

These condensers were originally intended for use with high performance aftermarket ignitions such as the WC DuCoil in the picture provided by Mr. Coopman. These distributors require the use of an external condenser(s) because of their design, so appearance was of the utmost importance. Mine work well and have proved to be super reliable, so their use has migrated to use with stock ignitions. I understand your desire to keep your car as original and second the recommendation of those offered by Third Gen Automotive.

[slowforty]

The search for a Good Condensor rivals Diogenes search for an Honest Man or a Flathead that Starts Hot and does not Overheat. After many years of Flathead owner ship(35). I just carry two of everything, ignition wise.
I found that you only need the part you forgot to bring with.

[Pete]

Originally Posted by rsellers

Can someone explain about the Tubman condensers?
Thank you.

They look like they are going 100 mph just standing still.