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Triumph TR6 - Spark strength

I want to test the strength of my spark (at the plugs). Any interesting tools or methods that can be used to test spark voltage? I have a Lucas 40k coil and ignitor ignition.

Thanks
Jim

Hi Jim

Snap on has one 218 bucks US. Don't have one myself and don't know of other makes but I am sure they are there.

Personaly I grab a plug properly gapped and jumper cable grounded to block if I have a wire or output concern. If you have a heavy set of rubber gloves just pull off each wire and look at the blue. I have had a few to many KV whacks over the years so I take off connect start etc.

Better yet is to take out original put in dummy plug ground actual plug and watch it perform thats usualy what you want to know.

Bill

B Brayford

Jim,
There used to be a simple, cheap tool for this. Shaped like a pair of plastic scissors, there was a connection on the end of one 'blade' for the plug lead. The scissor action allowed you to vary the gap that the spark had to jump to another electrode on the tip of the other 'blade', held onto something that was grounded, like the engine block. A chart that related spark gap to energy was included.

Haven't seen one for years! But it would not be impossible to make up a similar tool, from scratch. I don't know how the spark gap in air relates to spark voltage - anyone know?
John
JohnD

Reliable method: hold thumb over the end of the distributor wire at spark plug fitting. Crank engine. Measure decibels.
Bryn

Bryn, love the technique. However, was looking for a lower decibel instrument.

Jim
Jim

Hi Jim
Lisle has a tool they say does what you want without removing plug for about $14.95 Canadian? Never tried one so buyer beware but there stuff is usually good.

Mind you I kind of like Bryns way. I haven't heard any good old Texas yodeling this far north for years.

Bill
B Brayford

This thread was discussed between 23/10/2002 and 26/10/2002

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