In a message dated 12/8/05 5:51:17 PM Eastern Standard Time,
v6spitfireguy@cox.net writes:
<< Anyway, I was wondering if using a capacitor, similar to the one
across the points would cut this arcing to a minimum and provide a much
longer solenoid life. >>
A cap isn't used in this app and I doubt it is used for any motor switching.
I few things to check, disconnect the battery lead from the solenoid then put
a volt meter on the trigger wire. Turn the key to crank, the engine won't
crank but the solenoid will pull in. Measure the voltage at the trigger wire.
If it is something like 1/2 volt lower that battery voltage there is a
possible bad connection or ignition switch. The solenoid needs a strong voltage
to
keep the contacts from chattering. Be sure to check the battery voltage while
the key is held in the crank position.
Was the car run with a shorted cell in the battery? A battery with a shorted
cell will produce 10 volts for as long as a battery with all cells working.
Sometimes the car will crank just fine but the solenoid will chatter causing
arcing.
Harold
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