How to test a solenoid

by trtexasaf101 Published on 08-28-2012 01:37 AM 0 Comments A solenoid is a tightly wound coil that produces an electromagnetic field when energized. In electronics and automobiles, solenoids are commonly used as electromechanical switching devices. As the coil is energized, the electromagnetic field moves a switch, plunger, or valve into position. Once the switch is in position, current can move from the input side to the output side of the connection. Sometimes the movable pieces inside the solenoid get stuck in the open position. This will cause solenoid malfunctions, and it ceases to function properly. Solenoid Test Step 1- Find the coil power wires. Discover which wires coming into the solenoid are the coil's power source, and leave them connected. This is the power that energizes the solenoid's coil and you will need this power to test the solenoid. Step 2- Disconnect the input/output wires. Unhook the wires that connect to the solenoid's input and output terminals. Be careful when unhooking the hot wire from the "input" side, as it will most likely have voltage on it waiting to cross the solenoid.

External Mount Solenoid

Starter Solenoid Step 3- Try to actuate the solenoid and listen for movement. Press the start button or turn the ignition key to start, and listen for a loud click noise at the solenoid. Note: If the solenoid is removed from the circuit, then manually send power into the coil contacts as required to actuate the solenoid. Step 4- Test the solenoid with a multimeter. Place one multimeter lead on the input terminal, and the other lead on the output terminal while in the Ohms resistance position. See picture below.

Leads connected to the input and output terminals. Step 5- Actuate the solenoid and check continuity. Actuate the solenoid again and you should get continuity across the main external contacts. Be careful not to touch the meter leads to the coil power source wires as you can damage the meter if you send in voltage while in the resistance setting. If you read continuity on the test then your solenoid is working properly. If you get an open (no continuity) instead, proceed on to the next step. Step 6- Tap the solenoid casing lightly. Lightly tap on the outside casing of the solenoid with a screwdriver handle or small rubber mallet. Sometimes this can jar loose the stuck plunger inside. Hook all of the connections back up, and try to actuate the solenoid again. If lightly tapping the casing did not work, then you will need a new solenoid. Note: The tap method may only get the solenoid working long enough to replace it for permanent use.

There are many different ways of testing a solenoid, generally dependent on the specific device configuration and the complexity of that device. Before testing, it is usually important to check the users manual for any tips and for the specifications of the device during normal operation. Testing a solenoid also might include measuring with a multimeter, observingsolenoid operations, testing individual parts and replacing suspect parts. The complex interconnections of solenoids, however, mean the ability to test a solenoid is often limited.

Most of the time, referring to a users manual or other guide is a necessary first step when testing a solenoid. The users manual will typically contain information about optimal solenoidoperating conditions, such as voltage and torque measurements. Common problems may be listed in a users manual, as well, removing the need to test a solenoid at all or perhaps answering some of the basic questions about a problem. Unique problems with specific solenoids are often indicated in users manuals, as well. Suggest Edits One of the most basic ways of testing a solenoid is to check the voltages with a multimeter. Most of the time the multimeter leads can be placed on the correct solenoid leads to show important specifications such as resistance and voltage levels. Checking these levels against normal operating specifications can indicate a problem, though this method alone often will not be enough to fully diagnose solenoid problems.
During normal operations, it might be possible to observe the problems affecting a solenoid. If possible, it may be helpful to engage the solenoid and take note of the effects. For instance, if a solenoids armature doesnt retract fully when electricity is applied, then it could indicate problems of resistance, corrosion or wiring. Again, this method of testing a solenoid might only provide a partial view of the underlying solenoid problems. If possible, it can be helpful to test the individual parts that make up a solenoid device. For instance, if the housing of a solenoid is badly damaged, it could be interfering with normal machine operations by shorting out a circuit or preventing regular motion. In many cases, testing a solenoid means observing all related parts to make sure they are in good working order. Suggest Edits Sometimes, testing a solenoid might include replacing suspected parts and observing whether this fixes the solenoid problems. Replacing a deformed housing, for instance, might restore normal solenoid operations. If replacing a suspected part does not fix the problem, then that part can often be eliminated as the source of the solenoid problems.