Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[Rick]

Are there any real giveaways to suggest a condenser may be on the way out, or is it just another possible cause of general bad running??

R
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[ukdave2002]

Hi Rick

Condensers are difficult buggers to test. The only real way is to look at the trace on an engine analyser, which will show if there is a problem with the condenser.

The effect of a dodgy condenser will be that as the contacts open more energy will be lost across the points rather than colapsing the field in the coil, which means a weaker spark especially at higher revs.

Because they are so cheap and quick to change, most times substitution will prove the fault.

If you want to bring the car round we can hook it up to an analyser, which should quickly identify the problem, condenser or otherwise.

Dave

[Rick]

Thanks Dave, if the thing isn't running right when back together I'll take you up on that

R
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[ianm]

G'day Rick, Ive always found that when the condenser is on its way out the points are usually burnt.
The purpose of the condenser is to absorbe the high voltage generated in the primary circuit of the coil. when the points open and the magnetic field collapses producing the voltage in the secondary circuit for the spark it also produces a higher voltage in the primary in excess of the 12/6 volt of the supply which will burn the points, the condenser takes care of that by storing the excess voltage until the points are open and prevent arcing.
The ignition system can work without a condenser but the points will burn out in a short time.
If you have the unfortunate problem of a condenser short circuiting and having no spark you can get home by disconnecting the condenser and cleaning the points regularly until you get home.
Ian

[47p2]

Yes burnt points are the signs of a failing condenser.
You should always carry a spare.
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[The_ Yellow_Ardvark]

to test a Condessor, all you need is a Mulit meter

set the metter To teh highest Ohm setting.
Place Red lead on terminal, black lead on case.
You will get a very high resistance at the start, this will fall off until it reaches a steady indication.

Any other thasn that the thing is duff.
Bin it.
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[Phil - Nottingham]

Early Condensor failure is often preceded by an occasional misfire under load - if ignored it will get worse and burn out the points
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