Quck answer
To test a coil on a string trimmer, follow these steps:
1. Disconnect the spark plug wire to ensure safety.
2. Locate the coil, which is usually near the engine.
3. Use a multimeter set to the ohms setting to measure the resistance of the coil.
4. Connect one probe to the coil’s center terminal and the other probe to the outer terminal.
5. Check the multimeter reading. If it falls within the specified range provided by the manufacturer, the coil is functioning properly.
6. If the reading is outside the specified range, the coil may be faulty and needs to be replaced.
By following these steps, you can easily test the coil on a string trimmer to determine its functionality.
The ignition coil on a string trimmer is responsible for carrying the powerful electric current that ignites the spark plug. This spark plug then starts the fuel combustion in the cylinder. If the ignition coil fails, the string trimmer will either slow down or stop working completely. However, it can be challenging to determine if the coil is the cause of the issues with your gardening tool. By using an ignition system tester, you can test the ignition coil and identify if it is the source of the problem.
How the Ignition System Works
The ignition system of a string trimmer consists of three main components: a magnet located on the flywheel, a spark plug, and the trimmer’s ignition coil. When you pull the cord to start trimming weeds, the flywheel rotates. As the flywheel spins past the ignition coil, it induces a current that flows through the wire to the spark plug. This current creates a spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture in the chamber, enabling the string trimmer to start.
Over time, ignition coils may burn out or develop increased electrical resistance. This can result in misfires or a weaker, less efficient spark. If the spark encounters problems, your trimmer will also face difficulties.
Testing the Ignition Coil on the Trimmer
Using an ignition system tester is the simplest way to check the functionality of your string trimmer’s ignition coil. These testers are affordable, easy to use, and can be purchased online or at a local hardware store. To test the ignition coil, connect the tester between the spark plug boot and the engine.
Next, pull the starter cord and observe if a spark appears in the tester window. The advantage of this type of tester is that it can be used on any tool with a small engine, including a string trimmer, chainsaw, or snowblower, making it a worthwhile investment.
Weak Spark vs. Strong Spark
When testing your string trimmer with the system tester, pay attention to the spark in the test window. If a weak spark is visible, it indicates that you need to replace the ignition coil. However, if you see a strong spark but the trimmer still fails to start, you can try cleaning, adjusting the gap, or replacing the spark plug, and then repeat the test to observe if the spark becomes stronger.
Always Prioritize Safety
The ignition systems in this type of string trimmer can carry a potentially fatal charge. Therefore, it is crucial to take necessary safety precautions when working with them. Place the trimmer on the ground and wear leather work gloves. Ensure that you disconnect the HT lead wire from the spark plug tip during troubleshooting. If you are not comfortable working with equipment that requires safety precautions, consider using alternative tools for lawn maintenance, such as a rotary lawn edger, step edger, or flat-head spade.
