Magnetic Compass

[mudflp200s]

Why does da magnetic compass go 30 points 1 way when I step on da brake, and 30 points da other way when I let go-- even parked?

 

[Jorley]

Where is it mounted. Current flowing thru a wire can affect a compass.

 

[mudflp200s]

Wrong spot...

thanks for the info...WRONG SPOT musta been the answer...there musta been some kinda electromagnet thing around there and they musta been messin' with each others magnetics...

 

[MAKG]

Don't expect accurate compass readings anywhere in a steel-bodied vehicle.

Not only do electrical currents deflect needles, so does a big hunk of iron or steel. Like the cowl or the roof. And there are always currents flowing through the body; that's the electrical return for most of the vehicle.

 

[mudflp200s]

Magnetic iron

thanx again for the info...that iron and steel must be messin' with the magnetics too...that big mesabi iron range in minnesota sure threw the radio a few curves when i was up there...

 

[jlloyd]

That is called progresion and should stabilize when driving