How to Diagnose and Test a Coil on a Small Engine- A Comprehensive Guide
How to Check a Coil on a Small Engine
If you’re a DIY enthusiast or a small engine owner, understanding how to check a coil on your engine is a valuable skill. The coil, also known as the ignition coil, is a crucial component that converts low-voltage electricity from the battery into high-voltage electricity needed to spark the engine. Over time, coils can wear out or become faulty, leading to engine performance issues. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of checking a coil on a small engine to ensure it’s functioning properly.
Understanding the Coil
Before diving into the inspection process, it’s essential to understand the coil’s role in the ignition system. The coil consists of two main components: the primary winding and the secondary winding. The primary winding is connected to the battery and receives low-voltage electricity. When the engine’s ignition switch is activated, the primary winding creates a magnetic field, which then induces a high-voltage current in the secondary winding. This high-voltage current is what creates the spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber.
Tools and Materials Needed
To check your coil, you’ll need a few basic tools and materials:
– Multimeter (to measure resistance)
– Screwdriver
– Insulated gloves
– Safety glasses
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking a Coil
1. Locate the Coil: First, locate the coil on your small engine. It is typically mounted on the engine’s cylinder head or near the carburetor.
2. Safety Precautions: Before starting the inspection, ensure the engine is turned off and disconnected from the battery. Wear insulated gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from electrical hazards.
3. Inspect the Connections: Check the connections between the coil and the engine. Look for any signs of corrosion, loose connections, or damage. Tighten any loose connections and clean away any corrosion.
4. Measure Resistance: Using your multimeter, measure the resistance of the primary winding. The resistance should be within the manufacturer’s specified range. If the resistance is outside this range, the coil may be faulty.
5. Measure Secondary Voltage: To test the secondary winding, you’ll need a spark tester or a spark plug. Connect the spark tester to the coil’s secondary terminal and ground it to the engine block. Have someone turn on the engine while you observe the spark. If the spark is weak or non-existent, the coil may be faulty.
6. Check for Internal Shorts: If the coil’s resistance and secondary voltage tests are within specifications, it’s still possible that there may be an internal short. To check for this, disconnect the coil from the engine and measure the resistance between the primary and secondary terminals. If the resistance is low, the coil may have an internal short.
7. Replace the Coil: If any of the tests indicate that the coil is faulty, it’s time to replace it. Purchase a new coil that is compatible with your engine model and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
Conclusion
Checking a coil on a small engine is a relatively straightforward process that can help you diagnose and resolve ignition-related issues. By following this guide, you can ensure that your engine’s coil is in good working condition, leading to better performance and reliability. Remember to always prioritize safety when working on your engine and consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific instructions related to your engine model.
