21 replies to this topic

[freshairmini]

the multimeter needs to be set to it shows of a figure to one decimal point (eg, 00.0v). when charging you need about 13-14volts (at idle). off should be 12volts.

Cleaning up the fuse holders on mine gave it a bit more life. great when moneys tight!

[jmmini]

I'm supposed to be taking her to be looked at for several parts I've got and not fitted, the main is a center exit exhaust but also I have a push start button type thing, with my dodgy wiring would it be better to leave this for now?

I have another car (for when the moody mini won't start) with a 12v battery, should I change this over and see if this battery also drains?

[freshairmini]

be easier to diagnose with the multimeter, no need to remove an move batteries...

[jmmini]

Just found out a little battery tester in kitchen drawer, the type that light up. I'll slap this on it in the morning and have a look then

[jamesmpi]

Don't think that light up battery tester will be much use. All that'll do is light up if there is a voltage. You need to know the amount of voltage present which only a multi meter can tell you.

[freshairmini]

Don't think that light up battery tester will be much use. All that'll do is light up if there is a voltage. You need to know the amount of voltage present which only a multi meter can tell you.

Plus you might bugger the battery tester with all that current!

Edited by freshairmini, 30 June 2012 - 10:06 AM.

[dklawson]

Plus you might bugger the battery tester with all that current!

Not exactly. Battery testers (like voltmeters) allow/draw minimal current. However, most testers for dry-cell batteries are designed for 1.5V cells. (Some may also measure 9V batteries as well). Hooking such a tester to a car battery won't damage it by current but the over-voltage certainly can let the white smoke out of the components.