Can a vacuum switch be tested by sucking on it with mouth?

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  • October 29, 2019 at 5:11 pm #186109
    outboardnut
    Participant

      US Member

      In the past I had a RDS-20 vacuum switch and I believe if memory serves me correctly.
      I was able to suck on the barb and I would hear a click. Also making a continuity test the 12 volt light would go off.
      I now have a RD-17 vacuum switch and when I do a continuity test the 12 volt light never goes off when I apply suction (with mouth)
      What am I missing?

      October 29, 2019 at 5:43 pm #186110
      lindy46
      Participant

        US Member

        That’s how I used to test them.

        October 29, 2019 at 5:53 pm #186111
        garry-in-michigan
        Participant

          Lifetime Member

          If you are testing the switch off the motor, I would say you have an internal short. If it is wired up on the motor, the breaker points may be closed.

          October 29, 2019 at 6:02 pm #186113
          outboardnut
          Participant

            US Member

            its off the motor

            vacuum-switch

            October 29, 2019 at 9:28 pm #186132
            frankr
            Participant

              US Member

              Got a strong suckin’ tongue? That’s how I’ve always tested them. Switch will close at about as much as you can suck. Common failures are rock-hard diaphragm or corroded switch contacts. Both can be cured by replacing diaphragm or cleaning contacts, whichever applies.

              • This reply was modified 4 years, 6 months ago by frankr.
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