Ignition condenser ??

[Katchenup]

Hi, new to the group ! I have a one owner 1989 ranger 2.3. Recently changed the 8 spark plugs, then coil packs. My question is, what is the "condenser " looking part that bolts to a coil bolt, one wire. Can someone tell me what it does, what it is called, anything ?? Thanks

 

[pjtoledo]

it is actually a small capacitor. it's used to eliminate hi-frequency electrical noise in the ignition circuit.

"back in the day" it was standard procedure to replace the breaker points and condenser during a tune up.

 

[Katchenup]

Ok, thanks for the info. I definitely remember the old days of points & condenser, I wasn't sure about this tho. So, it won't affect the way it runs then, just noise thru the radio ?

 

[adsm08]

The RFI it captures isn't good for the computer either.

 

[Katchenup]

Interesting, so it's better on the computer to not use it ? My radio volume is screwy anyway ??

 

[adsm08]

Interesting, so it's better on the computer to not use it ? My radio volume is screwy anyway ??

No, it keeps the RFI off the lines and protects the computer. Not using is it a good way to overload capacitors in the PCM.

 

[Katchenup]

Awesome, thanks for the info. I'll replace it tomorrow!

 

[Charlie Cheap]

Computers hate electrical interference...so KEEP any capacitors you have. The one in the old dizzy was the same device but did a slightly different job from the ones on the coil, alternator and regulator. I am putting a modified dizzy in my Lima 2.3 in a sportscar with points...YES, points. Below 5000 RPM points work great on a 4-banger with hotter coil and copper plug wires...but DO NOT use copper wires on a computer engine! This is NOT to start an argument, but points by design make a longer spark than computer ignitions. That is why MSD was invented. Multiple Spark Discharge (MSD) is to simulate the longer points spark and give a better chance to ignite the fuel/air mix. Today's computers time FI input, spark timing, variable-valve timing, listen for knock, monitor O2 exhaust, MAS, MAP, and much more. Points mechanical system can't possibly do that. I am doing this in an old-school 67 Alpine with a modified 85 2.3 from a carb. Mustang...just to eliminate any computers. The A4LD overdrive will lock-up the converter with a button on the shifter...which was done by the computer originally. Just a FYI note.