Sierra condensers

[Buccaneer]

I spent the extra few bucks to get the OMC impeller for my 7.5 Fleetwin,
but decided to save a few bucks and got the Sierra condensers.
The condensers I removed tested at .23 & .24 MFD.
(which I believe are in specs?)
The new Sierra condensers both test at .30 MFD.
Guess I’ll put the old ones back in for now.
Anyone else notice this problem with Sierra condensers?

Prepare to be boarded!

[rjoynt]

What is the part number of the Sierra condensers? I have tested ones in the past and they were fine. 18-5199?

[Mumbles]

quote Buccaneer:

Anyone else notice this problem with Sierra condensers?

Yup. Remember this thread?

viewtopic.php?f=2&t=9075&hilit=quality+control

[jerry-ahrens]

I always use the OMC/BRP tune up kit, because I hate the Sierra points. I do keep a few Sierra condensers around, to use here and there. I’m glad you pointed out the ”out of spec” reading… as i have never checked a new Sierra condenser. I’ll check both and compare, but it sounds like the condensers are no good either.
I keep telling myself that I’m gonna stock up on the good tune up kits while I can still get them, guess I should get that done.

[Buccaneer]

Lesson learned ! The Sierra condensers in question were # 18-5199.
I’ll save them for another project that calls for .30 mfd condensers!
I found some NOS Prestolite condensers for OMC that I had stashed,
and they tested at .18 and .20 mfd, so I used them.

Prepare to be boarded!

[jeff-register]

How do you test them? Under load or not. I use a Mercotronic tool to be sure to check under load, but that’s just me. Others have their ways to test too.

[Pete]

I test capacitors removed from ignition or appliance, discharge them by grounding the terminal to the case, use digital MM with a mfd setting to determine farads. If no mfd setting on digital MM then need a tool with that ability? Can also check continuity with Ohm setting to see if internals are open (no good) or closed. If Ohms indicated (closed circuit possibly good) the MM will build a charge in the capacitor if probes held to capacitor so discharge it as above before use. If it builds a charge that is an indication it is good but if mfd are out of spec then can’t be used for the application.

[jeff-register]

Great advice!

[rjoynt]

I just checked my 18-5199 Sierra condensers and they measured 28 mf on my Stevens Model 31. I guess the question is, what should it be?

[fisherman6]

Supposed to be between .18mfd and. 22mfd. I have a few more of these myself. I guess I better test them.
-Ben

OldJohnnyRude on YouTube

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