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I have a new ignition system based on Jerry Howell's TIM-6 model, and it failed quickly after initial testing. I suspect the Hall Sensor or the Transister is at fault. I have tested the Transister, and would like to now test the Hall. Does anyone know a simple multimeter test for these components to check it?Mosey
Since I am about to go down this path as well, using the S/S engineering ignition systems, coil included, I have a couple of questions.First of all, how do you determine which of the poles on the magnet is the south pole? I've read that the earth's north pole is actually a south magnetic pole which is why it attracts the north pole of a compass. So, does that mean that I would use the magnet's pole which is attracted to the north pole of a compass?Also, what are the precautions I need to take to not burn out the hall effect sensor when I first test it and/or install it?Chuck
Since I am about to go down this path as well, using the S/S engineering ignition systems, coil included, I have a couple of questions.First of all, how do you determine which of the poles on the magnet is the south pole?Also, what are the precautions I need to take to not burn out the hall effect sensor when I first test it and/or install it?
I plan to buy a cheap magnetic Scotty dog in the toy store to find the North of my magnets, as I tend to lose track.Mosey
The cap came with the coil from Roy Sholls and I installed it. Is it a problem? I thought these coils need a cap to work properly.Mosey
Howell's instructions shows the heat-sink as "not-absolutely necessary", and only for "unusual circumstances cause it to heat up". He shows it mounted with a 2-56 pan-head screw, thru the transistor, thru the heat-sink, and to the board. "The tab is only for that purpose".
Yes, thanks Steve, Roy knows this stuff, and Caps are mentioned in Bob Shore's book as necessary. Cap is going to stay.Mosey
Mosey,Your picture of the circuit board looks like the circuit board is between the transistor and the heat sink. If so you won't get much heat sink value.Also it looks like your heat sink is screwed to something which makes me wonder if the heat sink is electrically isolated from the engine and everything else. Assuming the engine frame is in the circuit somewhere the heat sink needs electrical isolation.Alan
Would a nylon washer be acceptable between HS and PCB? I don't have any mica.Funny you should mention contact with the system, as I ponder the practicality of the exposed ignition. Is it a problem to leave it hanging out in the open, exposed to fingers or bumping into? Consider housing the ignition PCB in a plastic shield? Cooling?Or is this overthink?You know I hate those ignitions buried in a wooden coffin underneath the engines.Mosey
Would a nylon washer be acceptable between HS and PCB? I don't have any mica.