Testing of ignition cables

If the ignition cable appears to be OK, its function can be measured using a multimeter. For this purpose each contact of the multimeter is attached to an end of the ignition cable.
If the ignition cable appears to be OK, its function can be measured using a multimeter

First, the ignition cable should be subjected to close visual inspection. If it is porous, has hairline cracks, oxidised contacts or other damage, it has to be replaced.

If the ignition cable appears to be OK, its function can be measured using a multimeter.

  1. Set the multimeter to 20 kΩ
  2. Attach one contact to each end of the cable
  3. Read the resistance

Permissible resistance values are:

  • Ignition cable with a copper core: 1 to 6.5 kΩ
  • Inductive resistor and carbon resistor: The value is calculated based on the resistance per meter multiplied by the length of the cable, plus tolerance
  • Ignition cables with inductive resistor: Here the resistance can be between 2.2 kΩ and 8 kΩ
  • Ignition cables with carbon resistor: The resistance per 1 m cable is 10 kΩ to 23 kΩ

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