Dwell Tester Function: How to Maintain & Use It
Speaking of vehicle maintenance, it certainly involves the use of measuring tools to assist in the repair process, one of which is the dwell tester. One of the functions of the dwell tester is to measure the contact angle of the platinum in cars that still use a conventional ignition system.
In addition, there are many other functions that you should know. Let's take a look at the complete review regarding the functions, how to use, and how to maintain the dwell tester below.
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What is the Function of a Dwell Tester?
In general, a dwell tester functions as an automotive measuring tool used to measure the size of the dwell angle (the angle formed when the platinum contact is closed and opened) in a vehicle's ignition system, especially in conventional ignition.
The measurement process of the angle is very important because an incorrect angle can potentially affect the vehicle's performance.
It can even cause serious problems in the vehicle. Some dwell testers are directly connected to a tachometer. Both the dwell tester and the tachometer are automotive measuring tools.
So, what are the functions and differences between a dwell tester and a tachometer?
A tachometer itself functions as a tool to measure the car's RPM. In addition, the dwell tester has several components that serve different functions.
The pointer needle indicates the result of the angle measurement obtained when measuring the platinum.
The measurement scale serves as an indicator of the result in the form of numbers from the measurement process of the car RPM or dwell angle, taking into account the cylinder used.
Different cylinders require different usage methods. Next is the adjustment screw. This component functions to adjust the needle so that when the pointer needle is used, it can produce accurate calibration.
The next component of the dwell tester is the selector. The selector functions to change the mode, whether you want to measure RPM (tach position) or dwell angle (dwell position).
The next components of the dwell tester are the red and black wires. The red wire functions as a signal voltage measurement from the coil to the platinum.
Meanwhile, the black wire functions as ground and is connected to the car body or the negative terminal of the battery.
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How to Use a Dwell Tester
After knowing what a dwell tester is and its differences with a tachometer, how do you use a dwell tester?
Of course, the method is different from how to use an avometer. Here are 5 easy steps to use a dwell tester.
1. Prepare the Tool
First, prepare the dwell tester that will be used.
2. Set the Dwell Tester First
Next, you can set the dwell angle of the tester first. Check the direction of the pointer needle to see if it is correctly positioned at zero.
If it is not correct, use a screwdriver to turn the adjustment screw until the pointer needle is exactly at the zero position.
The accuracy of the pointer needle greatly affects the calibration results obtained. Therefore, you must always pay attention to it before using this tool.
So, what is the standard size of the dwell angle? For the measurement process of the dwell angle, you can adjust it according to your needs, whether you want to decrease or increase the platinum angle.
3. Connect the Black and Red Wires
Ensure that the black wire is connected to ground or the negative terminal and the red wire is connected to the negative terminal of the coil or ignition terminal.
4. Start the Engine
Make sure your vehicle's engine is running to ensure accurate calibration results.
5. Use the Selector According to the Mode
If you want to measure the engine RPM, turn the selector to the tach position, and vice versa. Then read the results according to the type of cylinder used in the vehicle.
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How to Maintain a Dwell Tester
You should know that to operate a dwell tester, you need electrical energy because this tool is an electrical measuring device.
Therefore, maintenance is necessary to ensure that this measuring tool works well. Here are the correct maintenance methods for a dwell tester:
- Keep the dwell tester away from magnetic materials, as they will affect the calibration of the dwell tester.
- Always pay attention to the wires, ensuring they are not broken.
- Make sure you do not mistakenly set the mode when taking measurements, and pay attention to the maximum measurement limit.
- Replace the dwell tester battery periodically to ensure accurate calibration.
Well, that’s a complete review of the functions of the dwell tester, its maintenance, and how to use it. Hope it is useful.
