Re: Why is it so hard to test a Condenser? (Was: Condensers for Johnson / OMC)

[John]

If you really want to thoroughly test a condenser, you need to apply real world conditions. These include the voltage and current that they see in service, as well as heat and vibration. Merc-O Tronic testers, Stevens testers, and the old magic eye testers all are capable of testing at the correct voltages and (possibly) currents. The problem with bench testers is that they don’t include the heat and vibration part. I believe that heat is a primary contributor to parts like condensers and coils that test OK on the bench, and in a quick run in the barrel, but fail three miles from the launch ramp.

I work as an electrical engineer, designing electronic controls for commercial vehicles (i.e. trucks). The primary enemies of electronic components in harsh environments are heat, vibration, humidity, and deterioration due to aging. All of these are present in old outboards.

John Van