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It is basically a temporary storage device for electricity. The condenser is a simple capacitor that can store a small amount of current. When the points begin to open, the current flowing through the points looks for an alternative path to ground. If the condenser were not there, it would try to jump across the gap of the points as they begin to open. If this were allowed to happen, the points would quickly burn up and you would hear heavy static on the car radio. To prevent this, the condenser acts like a path to ground. It really is not, but by the time the condenser is saturated, the points are too far apart for the small amount of voltage to jump across the wide point gap. Since the arcing across the opening points is eliminated, the points last longer and there is no static on the radio from point arcing.

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Related Questions

Will a bad ignition condenser keep a motorcycle from firing?

Yes, a bad ignition condenser will keep a motorcycle from firing. A bad ignition condenser might also have caused the points to stick together and burn up.


Where is the ignition condenser at on a hei ignition system?

inside the distributor


Where is the ignition condenser located on a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

The ignition condenser is located inside the distributor. In order to repair the issue, the distributor will need removed and replaced.


Does a magneto ignition use a different condenser than a battery ignition?

Yes, a magneto ignition system typically uses a different type of condenser than a battery ignition system. Magneto systems require a condenser designed to handle the high voltage and rapid discharge associated with self-generating power, while battery ignition systems utilize condensers suited for lower voltages and longer discharge times. The specific characteristics of each condenser are tailored to the operational requirements of their respective ignition systems.


Where is the ignition condenser located on a 1976 Dodge D200?

Ignition condensers went out with the ignition points in the early 1970's.


How do you test a auto ignition condenser?

To test an auto ignition condenser, first, disconnect it from the ignition system. Use a multimeter set to the capacitance setting to measure the condenser’s capacitance; it should be within the manufacturer’s specified range. If the reading is significantly lower or shows an open circuit, the condenser is likely defective. Additionally, you can perform a basic test by checking for continuity; a good condenser should show no continuity when tested with a multimeter in the resistance setting.


On a Chevrolet 350 does an electronic ignition have points?

No it does not have points or condenser.


Does 83 ranger have points and condenser?

Nope- electronic ignition.


What does a condenser do in a breaker points ignition system?

In a breaker points ignition system, a condenser, or capacitor, serves to store and release electrical energy. When the breaker points open, the condenser discharges its stored energy, which helps to create a stronger spark at the ignition coil. This results in an improved ignition of the air-fuel mixture in the engine's combustion chamber. Additionally, the condenser helps to prevent arcing across the breaker points, prolonging their life and ensuring reliable operation.


The function of the condenser in a breaker points ignition system is to?

The function of the condenser in a breaker points ignition system is to keep the points from sticking together. If the points stick together during ignition it could cause the points to burn up. The condenser sends a signal to the points and then takes the signal away to make the points separate.


Is there a condenser on HEI ignition systems?

Yes there is a condenser on HEI systems with large cap with coil-in-cap. It may seem counterintuitive but yes there is. Follow along. A "condenser" is simply a capacitor. HEI do have a capacitor/condenser within harness and it's adjacent to plug that attaches to ignition control module (beneath rotor). The HEI condenser/capacitor is employed to suppress "radio noise". OE GM HEI have a round condenser while many aftermarket HEI have a squarish-flat condenser. A replacement for OE round HEI condenser is supplied by Standard Motor Products (aka Standard Ignition) as part number RC-3.


Is an ignition condenser necessary?

An ignition condenser, often used in older ignition systems, is not strictly necessary in modern electronic ignition systems, which typically do not require one. However, in traditional points-type ignition systems, the condenser plays a crucial role by preventing arcing at the points, improving performance, and extending the life of the ignition components. While it's not essential for all vehicles, it remains important for those utilizing older technology to ensure smooth engine operation and prevent damage.