Vintage Engine Analyzer

[bobdorit]

Hi
I do not know if it is right to post this here or not,
Recently I received an engine analyzer, it comes from 70s! when the cars had distributor.
It has one funny probe (attached picture) it does not look like an inductive probe (not sure)...
anybody knows how the current and ignition voltage is measured with these analyzers?
Any information is highly appreciated.

 

[mrutkaus]

The funny probe with the metal strip is for measuring high current, you connect it between the battery and the battery cable. It passes the high amps thru it and because of its slight resistance, puts out a small voltage which the meter interprets for you as the high amp measurement.

For measuring plug volts there is usually a directly connected probe, perhaps even your black and red alligator clips.

Mike

 

[cliff7080]

The flat strip is indeed the amp meter. The black is the ground and the red is the voltmeter.

 

[Rogerm60]

These ideas are doubtful.

The red and black clips usually go across the coil to give tach and dwell info.
The metal strip looks too small for battery current. It may go between the coil and it's positive lead to measure the current to the points.

This should only be used on an engine with mechanical points in the distributor and the old "can" style coil with #10 screw terminals. The dwell on newer cars with electronic ignition is much higher and attempted use could fry the ignition module!

 

[bobdorit]

The funny probe with the metal strip is for measuring high current, you connect it between the battery and the battery cable. It passes the high amps thru it and because of its slight resistance, puts out a small voltage which the meter interprets for you as the high amp measurement.

For measuring plug volts there is usually a directly connected probe, perhaps even your black and red alligator clips.

Mike

Thanks for reply!
It makes sense, this afternoon I am going to try it to see if it works or not,
thanks for other replies too.

 

[bobdorit]

It works!
I tested a 50watt bulb in the way which Mick said (one end to positive battery and other end to the bulb) it showed 4 amp which is not bad, (considering its range is from 0 to 100 Amp with 2 amp intervals).
I think the probe is specially designed to test the Alternator current (as I looked on similar gauges having same probe, which they say they measure alternator current...) ...one end of probe goes on B+ on Alternator and the wire which goes to B+, connects to other end...
Thanks every body. my mind was busy for a week to figure out how does it work! ... Although the time of these Analog meters has passed.

 

[bobdorit]

so sorry ....Mike