As a senior car enthusiast, you know that the pick-up coil is an essential component of the ignition system. It is responsible for generating the signal that triggers the ignition coil to produce the high voltage needed to ignite the fuel in the combustion chamber. However, like any other part of your car, the pick-up coil may fail over time due to wear and tear or other factors.
What is a Pick Up Coil?
Before we proceed to the testing procedure, let's first understand what a pick-up coil is. A pick-up coil, also known as a magnetic sensor, is an electromagnetic device that detects the position of the distributor shaft and generates a voltage signal that is sent to the ignition control module or the engine control module. The signal is then used to control the ignition timing and fuel injection.
When to Test a Pick Up Coil?
If your car has been experiencing problems with starting, misfiring, or stalling, it may be due to a faulty pick-up coil. The pick-up coil may also be the culprit if you notice a lack of power or acceleration. Testing the pick-up coil will help you determine whether it needs to be replaced or not.
Tools Needed to Test a Pick Up Coil
Before you start testing the pick-up coil, you will need the following tools:
- Ohmmeter or multimeter
- Screwdriver
How to Test a Pick Up Coil?
Now that you have the necessary tools, you can proceed with testing the pick-up coil. Here are the steps:
- Disconnect the negative (-) battery cable to prevent electrical shock or damage to the electrical system.
- Locate the pick-up coil. It is usually located inside the distributor cap or on the distributor housing.
- Remove the distributor cap and rotor to access the pick-up coil. You may need a screwdriver to remove the screws or clips that hold the cap and rotor in place.
- Identify the two wires that connect the pick-up coil to the ignition control module or engine control module. Use a wiring diagram or repair manual to locate the wires if necessary.
- Disconnect the wires from the pick-up coil.
- Set your ohmmeter or multimeter to the resistance or ohms setting.
- Connect the meter leads to the two terminals of the pick-up coil. The meter should read between 500 and 1500 ohms. If the reading is outside this range, the pick-up coil is faulty and needs to be replaced.
- Reconnect the wires to the pick-up coil.
- Reinstall the distributor cap and rotor.
- Reconnect the negative (-) battery cable.
Conclusion
Testing the pick-up coil is a simple process that can help you diagnose ignition system problems in your car. With the right tools and a little bit of knowledge, you can easily test the pick-up coil yourself and save money on repairs. If you suspect that your pick-up coil is faulty, it is best to replace it as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your ignition system.