Cannot afford a breakout box (SA-6) - anyone have tricks to make running test easier?

[WA-Newb]

I just ordered my DVA and have been going over how I will do the tests when it gets here but am concerned I will run into the problem of not having the ability to get the leads where they need to be on the running test.

Does anyone have tips, tricks or techniques they use for doing running tests on ignition systems?
I am considering trying to make one but I doubt it will be feasible financially.

Besides the breakout box question I am all ears for any other tips on this.

Today I heard paper clips can be used instead of terminal extenders for the coils..is that true?

Thank you.

note: For those who are new like myself a breakout box is a unit that has the correct plugs on it that will plug into your system and will allow you to test the wires very easily....it basically adds length to your wires and has a spot to insert the meters leads. Photo attached.

 

[Faztbullet]

Re: Cannot afford a breakout box (SA-6) - anyone have tricks to make running test eas

Does anyone have tips, tricks or techniques they use for doing running tests on ignition systems?

A paper clip works wonders inserted in the amphenol connector the bent upwards...

 

[WA-Newb]

Re: Cannot afford a breakout box (SA-6) - anyone have tricks to make running test eas

A paper clip works wonders inserted in the amphenol connector the bent upwards...

Forgive my ignorance but isn't that only good for when the amphenol plugs are unplugged?
If that is the case wouldn't my meter lead just fit into the holes?

Or is the terminals on the coils called amphenols as well? I can see it working on those.
(had to google amphenol...it's the round plugs I guess)

I have never done this sort of thing so am learning as much as possible now.

Thank you.

 

[boobie]

Re: Cannot afford a breakout box (SA-6) - anyone have tricks to make running test eas

To save yourself a lot of trouble and time, just get the OEM Factory Service Manual for your mtr. I haven't used the break out box for years. All you need is a multi-meter and a DVA adapter.

 

[WA-Newb]

Re: Cannot afford a breakout box (SA-6) - anyone have tricks to make running test eas

To save yourself a lot of trouble and time, just get the OEM Factory Service Manual for your mtr. I haven't used the break out box for years. All you need is a multi-meter and a DVA adapter.

boobie...I do have the manual and that's what I am going off.

I am writing out my instructions in a way I can understand...every few steps looking up the parts and the tester the manual is talking about. In this case I know I have to have everything plugged in and the motor running but still be able to test the wires.
Book says to use a CD adapter (Junction box). Stopped by the local marine shop and asked them today and he even said I will probably need a breakout box for my running output tests.

Can you tell me how I can access the wires I need to probe (pretty much all of them) without piercing holes in each? I am just thinking that wouldn't be a good idea on these wires.

Thank you.

From my manual:
Plug connectors into
the CD adapter one set at a time to
check individual circuits while running
engine. If CD adapter is not available,
some running tests can be performed
using jumper leads to connect peak
reading voltmeter in parallel with circuit
being tested. Note that all circuits
must be connected if using jumper leads
to perform running output tests,

 

[daselbee]

Re: Cannot afford a breakout box (SA-6) - anyone have tricks to make running test eas

Boobie is right. You are making this a bit harder than it needs to be. I have a breakout box, and very very rarely use it. Get a DVA adapter or a peak reading voltmeter, and measure the voltage at the orange wire on each coil either running or at cranking speed. It should be around 160 volts or higher. If all cyls have that 160+ voltage, then there in likely nothing wrong with the ignition system. If the voltage is low, then look at the brown pairs of wires coming from the stator for low voltage. In reading your posts, I think your idle troubles will be in the carbs/throttle plate cleaning. Gotta get the idle passages spotless clean, and linked/synced correctly.

 

[WA-Newb]

Re: Cannot afford a breakout box (SA-6) - anyone have tricks to make running test eas

Boobie is right. You are making this a bit harder than it needs to be. I have a breakout box, and very very rarely use it. Get a DVA adapter or a peak reading voltmeter, and measure the voltage at the orange wire on each coil either running or at cranking speed. It should be around 160 volts or higher. If all cyls have that 160+ voltage, then there in likely nothing wrong with the ignition system. If the voltage is low, then look at the brown pairs of wires coming from the stator for low voltage. In reading your posts, I think your idle troubles will be in the carbs/throttle plate cleaning. Gotta get the idle passages spotless clean, and linked/synced correctly.

I really want to test all my ignition components to rule them out first...only reason is that the ignition system is something the previous owner never looked into and had the main issue still (not the idle issue) after having the carbs done, vro etc. He would be running great and then when it warmed up he would lose all power. It may not be related to the current idle issue at all but that was the ONLY issue it had when I got it that I know of.

Also from my manual:
RUNNING OUTPUT. Perform running output tests to trouble-shoot intermittent or erratic ignition malfunctions.

So can I test the timer base output somehow while running? how about the stator?
I get the paper clips on terminals and that was a great idea.

But the timer base says to test each terminal one at a time on the five terminal plug....but do this while running.

Thank you.