How To Test Coil On Snowmobile

How to Test a Snowmobile Coil: A Comprehensive Guide

Winter's here, and the thrill of snowmobiling is calling. But what happens when your snowmobile sputters, coughs, or refuses to start? One common culprit is a faulty ignition coil. This guide will walk you through how to test your snowmobile coil effectively, saving you time, money, and frustration.

Understanding Your Snowmobile's Ignition Coil

Before diving into testing, let's understand the coil's role. The ignition coil is a crucial component of your snowmobile's ignition system. It takes the low-voltage electrical signal from the ignition system and transforms it into the high-voltage spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine's cylinders. A faulty coil means no spark, and ultimately, a non-running snowmobile.

Tools You'll Need

Testing your snowmobile coil requires a few basic tools. Make sure you have these on hand before you begin:

• Ohmmeter or Multimeter: This is essential for measuring the resistance within the coil. A digital multimeter is preferred for accuracy.
• Spark Tester: While not strictly necessary, a spark tester makes visualizing the spark easier and more definitive.
• Snowmobile Service Manual: This will provide specific information on your snowmobile model, including coil specifications and testing procedures. Always consult your manual for model-specific instructions.
• Safety Glasses and Gloves: Protect yourself from potential hazards.

Testing the Coil: A Step-by-Step Guide

There are two main methods for testing a snowmobile coil: a resistance test and a spark test. Both are valuable, but the resistance test is generally a good starting point.

Method 1: Resistance Test

1. Disconnect the Coil: Carefully disconnect the coil wires from the snowmobile's ignition system. Take photos or make notes to ensure correct reconnection.
2. Locate the Coil Terminals: Identify the primary and secondary coil terminals. Your service manual will show you the exact location of these terminals on your specific coil.
3. Set Your Multimeter: Set your multimeter to measure resistance (usually symbolized by Ω).
4. Measure Primary Coil Resistance: Connect the multimeter leads to the primary coil terminals. Your service manual will provide the specified resistance range. If the reading is outside this range, the primary coil is likely faulty.
5. Measure Secondary Coil Resistance: Connect the multimeter leads to the secondary coil terminals. Again, check your manual for the specified resistance. A reading outside the specified range indicates a potential problem with the secondary coil.

Method 2: Spark Test (More definitive)

1. Connect the Spark Tester: Connect one end of the spark tester to a good ground on the snowmobile and the other to the spark plug wire.
2. Reconnect the Coil: Reconnect the coil wires, ensuring they are securely connected.
3. Crank the Engine: Have someone crank the engine while you observe the spark tester. A strong, consistent spark indicates a healthy coil. A weak spark or no spark suggests coil failure.

Interpreting Your Results

• Resistance Test: If the resistance readings are significantly outside the specified range in your service manual, the coil is likely faulty and needs replacement.
• Spark Test: A strong, consistent spark indicates a functioning coil. Absence of a spark points to a problem either with the coil, or another part of the ignition system.

Troubleshooting Further

If both the resistance and spark tests indicate a problem with the coil, it is highly likely the coil itself needs to be replaced. However, it is important to consider other possibilities, like:

• Faulty Ignition Switch: A faulty switch may not send the required signal to the coil.
• Bad Spark Plug: A faulty spark plug will impede the spark even with a functioning coil.
• Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring can disrupt the electrical signal.

Always consult your snowmobile's service manual for specific troubleshooting steps and diagrams.

Conclusion

Testing your snowmobile coil is a relatively straightforward process that can save you considerable time and money. By following these steps, you can accurately diagnose coil problems and get back to enjoying the thrill of snowmobiling. Remember safety first and always consult your service manual!