I sincerely hope no one takes offence over this post. I do not in any way wish to insult the inteligence of any members.
But....
There have been an awful lot of threads started to do with faulty electrics lately.
It would seem that many Mini owners do not possess any means of testing for voltage.
Below shows how to make a very simple emergency tester.
I strongly suggest that the purchase of a voltage and continuity tester is a must. They are not expensive, less that a fiver, and can save an awful lot of time and head banging.
They are easily available from your local car accessory shop or Maplin and are very easy to use.
In the mean time I have 'knocked up' a very simple emergency voltage tester which might help some members out.
Use a low wattage bulb something like the one in the curtesy light, you could even 'borrow' the one from your courtesy light temporarily if you haven't got a spare.
The one in the picture is an indicator bulb; it's fine but it is brighter and can get a bit hotter to hold.
Strip about 3" of one end of a length of wire, wrap it round the metal body of the bulb and twist it tight then strip about 1/2" of the other end of the wire...That's it!
It is a good idea to put some insulation tape around the metal body of the bulb to prevent accidentaly touching it to earth.
To use it simply hold the end terminal of the bulb against an earth on the car body (or engine) and touch the end of the wire to the contact point you want to test for voltage.
When using it don't make it light for too long as the bulb will get hot, a flash is enough to tell you that you've got voltage.
I really hope this is of use to somebody.....
Regards.
Dave.
Edited by Min E, 01 December 2009 - 01:38 AM.
