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Collection, Preservation and Display of Old Lawn Mowers

Testing the coil – Ransomes Minor

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Hello to all. I'm a new member and have joined on behalf of my father who doesn't have the internet.

He has a Ransome's Minor Mk7 which is currently a non-runner. The HT and plug have both been replaced which had led him to think the coil is faulty. Is there are way to test this without having to remove it from the mower and if not is there any information available regarding the best (or only) way to take this part of the machine apart to remove the coil?

If the coil is found to be fault is there a modern equivalent that can be used as a replacement?

Thank you in advance for any help or suggestions as to the best way to proceed.

 

 

Forums

wristpin Sun, 29/11/2020

Basic tests of the primary and secondary resistance reading may be performed with the flywheel removed but the coil left on the stator plate still in-situ. A more in depth "stress" test of the coil requires a special coil tester but may still be done in-situ. With the flywheel removed you can also give the contact breaker points a thorough cleaning. A proper condenser test also needs a special tester to simulate working conditions.

Recently manufactured coils are available at a cost of £60 - 70 . Beware of "new, old stock" coils on auction sites . Although unused they may have been around for as long as your existing coil and suffered internal corrosion. New coils from China or Taiwan are cheaper but may require some adaptation.  

The best course of action is possibly to remove the stator plate complete with coil, condenser and points and get it tested by someone with the right knowledge and equipment. 

Beresford Sun, 29/11/2020

Many thanks for your detailed reply. I'll pass on the information to my father so he can decide his next steps.