Ignition coil bench test

[NCGuy68]

Anyone have a reliable 'Bench Test' method to check the secondary (high voltage) output of a OEM vintage 12 volt coil?

Thanks for knowledgeable replys Gents.

[71-LS6]

Short of substituting it for the coil in a known working system, I don't know. It's kind of hard to haul your car around the aisles at the local swap meet, just to test a coil. One factor that I've encountered with seemingly good coils, is heat. I have had several coils that have dropped off (output wise) as the ambient temperature (underhood) rises. Coils that bench test just fine, but then start to fall down at higher rpm ranges (after engine warm-up) can drive you to drink. If your looking at NOS or good used piece for a project just make sure to buy from a reputable seller. Some of those coils are pretty pricy. Just my 2 cents worth.

[Chevy454]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Vintage-S...sspagenameZWDVW (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Vintage-Sun-Coil-Tester-Model-A-1886_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ43989QQihZ009QQite mZ190068334113QQrdZ1QQsspagenameZWDVW)

[NCGuy68]

Thanks for the Ebay link Rob. I've seen these Sun coil testers in the past, but never one that worked properly - this one included.

Many of us know that 'heat soak' can kill a coil. Other then swapping a known good one on a running motor, is there a better test off the car?

Feel free to chime in with your thoughts Gentleman.

[PeteLeathersac]

Here ya' go...check this out.

http://www.mymopar.com/coiltest.htm

~ Pete
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[NCGuy68]

Thats' a very helpful link, one we can all benefit from.

Thanks Pete! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[nuch_ss396]

Craig,

Please post back any results you gather on the use of the
method identified on coil testing. I'd like to know if it
truly works.

Steve