OzVMX Forum

Clubroom => Tech Talk => Topic started by: BJJ on June 29, 2008, 04:16:16 pm

Title: Short Wick
Post by: BJJ on June 29, 2008, 04:16:16 pm
Dear Forum

I have purchased a number of ignition coils via eBay over the last 12-24 months,  only to find the have short/chopped leads.  Is there any way to extend or rejuenate the length to whats required to reach the plug?

I know you can get joiners for hi tension leads on Cars,  but I prefer to not get this drastic with such a short lead.

Any info appreciated.

Title: Re: Short Wick
Post by: Doc on June 29, 2008, 05:51:03 pm
I have used a thin brass/copper woodscrew as well as a long thin brass picture framing nail before. Simply push/screw it up the coil lead, cut the head off and push/screw the extention piece then wrap a bit of tape or fit a rubber sleeve over the join. May not be the most ideal method for conductivity but eh, it works fine and costs nothing  ;) if you use normal mild steel it will corrode like wildfire and you'll end up with poor spark.
Title: Re: Short Wick
Post by: Nathan S on June 29, 2008, 06:27:22 pm
As Doc says.
Silicone/silastic and a couple of layers of heat-shrink over the top will also make the join water-proof and more physically robust.

Just don't try to put spark down the lead until you're sure the silicone has fully cured. Some silicones seem to become a bit conductive if you do this ??? and I haven't worked out which ones do or which ones don't.
Title: Re: Short Wick
Post by: brent j on June 29, 2008, 07:03:41 pm
Black silicone will conduct I think, I seem to remember they use carbon black for the colour?

Brent
Title: Re: Short Wick
Post by: BJJ on June 29, 2008, 07:46:13 pm
Until I hear anything better, then this is the go.  My long shot would be a service that moulds a new lead into the coil housing.  We all just chopp 5 mm back whenever anything bad happens.  I'm sure someone has come up with a solution??
Title: Re: Short Wick
Post by: halo1963 on June 29, 2008, 08:13:51 pm
You have to use special silicon
high voltage silicon
Dow Corning 3145 RTV it is grey I think

They use this stuff on the anode leads of TV's
So when dry it will handle it no problems

Regards
Halo1963

Title: Re: Short Wick
Post by: Doc on June 30, 2008, 07:19:43 am
thing is you need to put things into perspective billjackjane. Unless the coil is extremly rare and not easy to replace then wasting more than couple of hours on the sucker just ain't practicle if another can be had for about $50 (less for used, some a free if ya ask around!) Saves a lot of bother simply finding another sometimes and throwing the old one in the spare kit  ;) this coming from a tin arse who doesn't like spending oodles but eh..I've seen the light in these instances  :)
Title: Re: Short Wick
Post by: Tim754 on June 30, 2008, 10:38:31 am
IS that the Doc we know!!!!! :D Yep Bill electrical is electrical , not much pleasure gained by skimping, fresh is best. But if possible do find the time to repair the other for the spare parts box. ;)