A chainsaw is a powerful and versatile tool that can be used for various tasks, such as cutting trees, trimming branches, and more. To ensure that your chainsaw is working properly, regularly testing the ignition coil with a multimeter is important. Doing so will help identify potential issues before they become costly repairs or replacements.
Using a multimeter to test your chainsaw’s ignition coil is an easy and reliable way to confirm it’s working properly. Testing your chainsaw’s ignition coil with a multimeter helps you determine whether the spark plug is getting adequate electrical charge or if any issues need to be addressed before starting the engine. In this blog post, You will learn how to test chainsaw ignition coil with multimeter.
Step-by-step Instructions for How to Test Chainsaw Ignition Coil With Multimeter
Step 1: Inspect Your Chainsaw
Before you begin testing the ignition coil of your chainsaw, it is important to ensure that all other components are in working order. Inspect your chainsaw for any wear and tear or damage that may prevent it from operating properly.
Step 2: Locate the Ignition Coil
Once you have inspected your chainsaw, locate the ignition coil. The ignition coil can usually be found near the spark plug and should have two electrical wires connected to it. Before you start testing the ignition coil, disconnect the two electrical wires from it so there is no risk of electric shock or damage to the coils.
Step 3: Set Your Multimeter to Ohms
Next, set your multimeter to ohms. This setting will help you measure the ignition coil’s resistance. Now, touch the probes and record the reading on your multimeter display. This reading is known as the “zero resistance reading.”
Step 4: Attach the Probes to the Terminal Posts of the Ignition Coil
Attach one probe to each terminal post of the ignition coil and record any readings on your multimeter display. This will give you a baseline measurement for comparison. Now, move one of the probes around the coil and record any changes in readings on your multimeter. This will help you identify any areas of resistance or lack thereof.
Step 5: Check the Ohm Reading of Each Terminal Post
Next, check the ohm reading for each terminal post individually by attaching one probe. This will help you identify any discrepancies in the readings between the two posts.
Once you have taken all your readings, compare them to each other and to the zero resistance reading you took earlier. If there is a significant difference between these readings, it may indicate that the ignition coil is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Step 6: Reassemble Your Chainsaw
Once you have finished testing the ignition coil, reassemble your chainsaw and ensure all its components function properly.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to test a chainsaw ignition coil with a multimeter. By following these steps, you can quickly diagnose any potential faults in your chainsaw’s ignition system and take the necessary action to rectify them.
Safety Tips for How to Test Chainsaw Ignition Coil With Multimeter
- Wear thick protective gloves and clothing when performing any maintenance work on your chainsaw.
- Make sure that the power source for your chainsaw is completely disconnected from the ignition system before proceeding with this test.
- Always operate a multimeter per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Be aware of all safety warnings regarding high voltage printed on the multimeter.
- Do not attempt to repair a faulty ignition coil; replace it with an identical part from your local chainsaw parts supplier.
- Ensure you have properly reconnected all cables and connections before starting the engine.
By making sure you follow all of these safety tips, you can help ensure that the test process for the chainsaw ignition coil is performed correctly and safely. Once you have confirmed everything is up to standard, your chainsaw should be ready to use again.
Causes of Testing Chainsaw Ignition Coil With Multimeter
- The spark plug is faulty.
- Low engine compression due to worn piston rings, valves, cylinder, or head gasket.
- Fuel and air delivery system issues include clogged carburetor or fuel lines, a dirty air filter causing a vacuum leak, etc.
- A damaged stator (the part of the ignition system that produces the spark).
- A worn or damaged flywheel key (a small metal piece that keeps the flywheel and crankshaft connected).
- Bad ignition switch, coils, wires, and spark plug cap(s).
- Ignition timing is set incorrectly or out of adjustment due to a defective governor system.
- A defective ignition coil or spark plug.
When troubleshooting your chainsaw’s faulty ignition system, the first step is to test the ignition coils with a digital multimeter. This tool can help you determine whether an ignition coil is good or bad and if it needs replacement.
What Are Some Possible Signs That the Ignition Coil Needs to Be Replaced?
When your chainsaw ignition coil is malfunctioning, you may notice some telltale signs that the part needs to be replaced. These include:
- The engine fails to start even when all of the connections are secure.
- A visible spark from the spark plug when it should not be present.
- The engine running at a noticeably lower speed than normal.
- The chainsaw requires a lot of effort to start the engine.
If you have noticed any of these signs, your ignition coil likely needs to be replaced as soon as possible. Once you have identified the problem, it is time to purchase a new replacement part and begin testing.
How Often Should an Ignition Coil Be Tested With a Multimeter?
An ignition coil should be tested with a multimeter as part of your regular chainsaw maintenance routine. This is especially important if you notice any signs that the ignition coil may be failing or not working properly. It is always a good idea to check the functioning of your chainsaw’s ignition system every few months in case of any issues.
This can help you to identify problems early and prevent them from becoming more serious down the line. Regularly testing your chainsaw ignition coil with a multimeter can keep your chainsaw running smoothly and efficiently for years to come. If you follow all the safety precautions, this process should be easy and relatively quick.
What Type of Maintenance is Necessary After Testing the Ignition Coil With a Multimeter?
After testing the ignition coil with a multimeter, performing some basic maintenance on your chainsaw is important. Ensure that all the spark plug connections and cables are properly secured and that there are no signs of wear or loose components. Additionally, you should check for any debris or dirt buildup in the area around the spark plug and clean it away.
Finally, you should also ensure that the chainsaw’s fuel tank is filled to the correct level and that the oil levels are sufficient. This will help ensure that your chainsaw continues operating efficiently after the ignition coil testing process. Once you have performed all these maintenance tasks, your chainsaw should be ready for use again. As long as you follow the steps outlined in this article, testing your chainsaw ignition coil with a multimeter should be easy.
Is There Anything Else That Should Be Done During the Testing Process?
It is important to ensure that all components connected to the chainsaw’s ignition coil are in good working order. This includes checking the spark plug, air filter, and fuel lines. If any of these components are not working properly, it will impact the performance of your chainsaw. Additionally, it is a good idea to clean any debris or dirt that has built up around the ignition coil and its components. This will ensure that the testing process goes as smoothly as possible.
Finally, if you are having trouble getting the chainsaw to start after performing the tests, it may be necessary to consult a professional for further assistance. By following these steps, you should better understand how to test your chainsaw’s ignition coil with a multimeter. This process is relatively simple and should take little time or effort to complete.
What is the Best Way to Store an Ignition Coil After Testing It With a Multimeter?
After testing it with a multimeter, it is important to store an ignition coil properly. It should be kept in a dry, cool place and away from direct sunlight or harsh weather conditions. If you will use the ignition coil for a short period, it is best to remove it from the chainsaw and put it in a sealed bag or airtight container. This will help prevent dust and other debris from getting into the coil and damaging it.
Also, label the bag or container with the engine model and serial number to know which ignition coil belongs in which chainsaw when you use it again. Finally, if you are working on multiple chainsaws or testing multiple ignition coils, keeping them separated and labeled is important. This will ensure that you can easily identify the ignition coil for each chainsaw when needed.
Is It Necessary to Call Any Professional to Test the Chainsaw Ignition Coil With a Multimeter?
Testing a chainsaw ignition coil with a multimeter is simple and can be done by the average homeowner. However, if you feel overwhelmed by the process or need help with how to go about it, then it may be worthwhile to contact a professional. They will have the tools and experience to test the part correctly and get your chainsaw running again.
It is always best to contact qualified professionals for any repairs or maintenance that you do not feel comfortable doing yourself. With their help, you can get your chainsaw up and running quickly, saving you the hassle of doing it yourself. They can also advise on how to store and maintain your chainsaw for the long term. Following these steps, you should better understand how to test a chainsaw ignition coil with a multimeter and what maintenance is necessary afterward.
How Much Will It Cost to Test Chainsaw Ignition Coil With Multimeter?
The cost of testing a chainsaw ignition coil with a multimeter can vary depending on the type of service you receive. If you choose to do it yourself, you only need a basic multimeter that can be purchased at any hardware store for less than $20.
However, if you choose to contact a professional for assistance, the cost may vary depending on the technician’s experience, location, and rates. Generally speaking, you should pay anywhere from $50 to $100 for professional assistance testing a chainsaw ignition coil.
It is important to remember that this cost does not include any additional repairs or maintenance that may be necessary after the test has been completed. If your chainsaw does require additional work, then the cost for those services will be added to the total.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using a multimeter to test the chainsaw ignition coil is important in properly maintaining your saw. It’s recommended that you do this regularly, depending on the load and hours of use that the saw receives. When testing your induction coil with a multimeter, set it up correctly and follow all safety protocols.
Doing so will ensure that you get accurate readings and that your chainsaw is in top shape. Regular maintenance on your saw will also increase its lifespan and help it run more efficiently. I hope this article has been beneficial for learning how to test chainsaw ignition coil with multimeter. Make Sure the preventive measures are followed chronologically.
