| Author | Message | ||
     Jimidan |
I have a 85,000 BTU Sears space heater that has lost its spark. The ignition source is a 5,000 volt transformer running through a special long electrodes spark plug. I have grounded the plug just like I would on my Buell and it does not have a flame when I turn it on. The electrics on this thing are simple, but I have checked continuity through the two input leads of the transformer with an ohm meter, and there is flow with virtually no resistance. I checked to see if there was continuity between the hot input lead and the transformers case, and there was not. I do not have anything to measure 5000 volts, so I cannot start it and see if the transformer is putting out anything, I just can tell it is not bridging the spark plug electrodes. What usually goes wrong with these things after they have been sitting around of a few years. The thing is making fog to burn, so that isn't it. Where can one buy a 5000 volt transformer? Thanks in advance. It is very cold in the garage these days. Help! | ||
| Cyclonecharlie |
Jim, Don't know anything about your particular furnace,but had a few old fuel oil furnaces. Is it possible to close the gap on the electrode? If so it's worth a try,otherwise you start buying parts...Charlie | ||
| Oldog |
try a neon lamp to see if there is any output there are special high voltage testers, made TV shops use them for crt HV checks you were wise not to try it with a VOM, you can use a spark plug to check it as well the secondary side may be open,[bad] try to contact the maker if a replacement ignition transformer is needed. | ||
| Ironken |
http://www.portableheaterparts.com/index.html try these guys. I have one of these heaters as well and love it....Kenny | ||
| Mr_grumpy |
stick your finger in, if it gives you a belt, it's working.  Make sure that the transformer(ignition coil)is grounded too, a corroded connection can put enough resistance in to stop it firing. | ||
| Jimidan |
Thanks to all who gave suggestions...I will try them and report back. Er, I will try all of them EXCEPT putting my finger in it! Don't taze me bro...AHHHHaaahhhh!!!  (Message edited by jimidan on December 07, 2007) | ||
| Ft_bstrd |
Just test it the same way you would one of these:  | ||
| Jimidan |
Stick my tongue to it? I think 5000 V would give you more than a vague taste of something sour. |
