Re: [ihc] ignition coil condenser

[Steven Stegmann <steve.stegmann@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Howard,

Disconnect the condenser and try to start the engine. 
Mine won't even pop.  The capacitor is to provide a
path to ground for the primary circut surge when the
points open and the field around the coil collapses
generating the spark.

They use a capacitor because it will pass the surge
current which acts like AC but will not pass the DC
which is used to build the field in the coil.

Steve
--- Howard R Pletcher <n9ads@domain.elided> wrote:

> The condenser on the coil is there to reduce radio
> noise.  It should be
> connected between the + terminal and ground.  I've
> never dealt with the
> actual values as compared to the one in the
> distributor so I don't know
> what is needed.
> 
> Howard
> 
> 
> On Wed, 8 Sep 2004 18:42:42 -0600
> <spamaddy@domain.elided> writes:
> > This is a dumb, basic question, but what's the
> purpose of the little
> > condenser looking thing that is attached to the
> ignition coil mounting
> > bracket?  Which side of the coil should it attach
> to (positive or
> negative)?
> > And if I need a replacement (on a 345), does
> anyone know how I 
> > should pick a new one (should I use the same thing
> as is in the
> distributor?)?