Need a volt/dmm meter?

[RookieinMass]

I am trying to run electrical tests on my 1986 140 Johnson. I bought a cheap DMM and an Electronic Specialties DVA adapter but they don't seem compatible.

Would appreciate advice on a reasonably priced DMM that will accept the DVA adapter.

Also, is my engine ADI or CD ignition. I have gotten conflicting information about this?

 

[clanton]

Re: Need a volt/dmm meter?

If the adapter will plug into the meter, then set the meter DC scale 400 volts.

 

[Randyg123]

Re: Need a volt/dmm meter?

By popular convention the DMM's (and even analog) have their probe plugs set the same distance apart. This is assuming the DMM you have have probes that plug into sockets. If they are fixed probes, you're toast and would have to make some type of adapter using some jumper wires. But if you have plug-in style probes, just pull them out and plug in the DVA adapter keeping in mind the +/- configuration printed on the adapter.

Otherwise you'll have to hit Radio Shack or Sears for a decent DMM. Fluke are great but $$$$$. I think some of the Craftsman models are actually Flukes re-branded, but I don't know for sure. If you are going to get one, you might as well make sure you get one that will test diodes, as that seems to be real important when dealing with the ever-constant frying of the rectifier issues posted here Of course there are plenty more available on line or at specialty stores.

I built my DVA a few months back because I couldn't wait to have one shipped to me. Plus it only cost me about $20 total to make one.

 

[RookieinMass]

Re: Need a volt/dmm meter?

Thanks for the advice, I wiil be picking up a Sears model this weekend.

I will begin testing and hope I don't fry it or myself. I didn't call myself "RookieinMass" for nothing.

 

[dajohnson53]

Re: Need a volt/dmm meter?

By popular convention the DMM's (and even analog) have their probe plugs set the same distance apart. ...

Dumb question, but does DMM mean digital multi meter?

...Otherwise you'll have to hit Radio Shack or Sears for a decent DMM. Fluke are great but $$$$$....

What distinguishes between a good one and a poor one? For example, I think the digital multimeter I bought (at Radio Shack, I think) cost about $30. It seems to work fine and I assume it's accurate? I also have a tiny one in the boat box that so far I've just used for testing 12VDC stuff, but I believe it also has multiple functions - and it was even cheaper.

... If you are going to get one, you might as well make sure you get one that will test diodes, as that seems to be real important when dealing with the ever-constant frying of the rectifier issues posted here Of course there are plenty more available on line or at specialty stores....

What is special about this? I thought - based on the tests I have read in the FAQs - that you're just checking resistance or lack thereof with the ohm-meter?