VOM question

Randy'65

Founding Member
Feb 1, 2000
352
0
17
Richmond, VA
I'm trying to diagnose the non functioning automatic transfer case on my POS Ranger. An explorer repair website says to use a VOM to check for continuity across two terminal in a pin connector. To check for continuity, do you set the VOM on Ohms and if there is no value, there is no continuity and if there is a value, there is continuity?

Also, they say to apply a 12 volt source to the pins on the motor side of the connector to see if motor will turn. Where would you get 12 volts from? I wouldn't think you would pull a wire off a 12 volt source on the vehicle, and I wouldn't think you should try to rn temporary wires off the battery. The easiest method I can think of is to wire two 6 volt lantern batteries together in series and run wires off that, but it still doesn't seem like too hot of an idea. Is there an easier/safer way?
 
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Most meters have a separate setting for continuity. It usually has a dot with curved lines to the right of it (like sound waves), or a triangle with a line across 1 vertex (IIRC). When you touch the 2 probes together you should here a sound , or on some a light with illuminate (mine beeps and says SHORT on the display).
For the 12 volt source use any 12 volt source from your car, or a test lead (temp wire) from the battery.
 
Ohms is a measurement of resistance NOT continuity. Continuity is a measurement of electrical consistancy: for example, a light bulb may be tested with a VOM by checking to see that it has a functional fillament. Meters may be either analog or digital: both have a definite purpose but either will work in your application

A 12 volt power source may be easily be drawn from the vehicle's battery or any other by using jumper wires. Remember to observe the correct polaity.
 
SuperDave said:
Ohms is a measurement of resistance NOT continuity. Continuity is a measurement of electrical consistancy: for example, a light bulb may be tested with a VOM by checking to see that it has a functional fillament. Meters may be either analog or digital: both have a definite purpose but either will work in your application

A 12 volt power source may be easily be drawn from the vehicle's battery or any other by using jumper wires. Remember to observe the correct polaity.

SD,

Didn't you do a thread on using a multileter? I seem to remember you doing one. I tried searching but it must be gone, or I am remebering wrong
 
gp001 said:
SD,

Didn't you do a thread on using a multileter? I seem to remember you doing one. I tried searching but it must be gone, or I am remebering wrong

GP: I have often made reference to multimeters but have never written a thread specifically on their operation. A multimeter is only as useful as the user's knowledge of the electrical fundamentals upon which they operate. I learned much of what I know from my high school physics teacher and reading and applying a book from Radio Shack.

A meter has thousands of automotive applications as well as around the house. I've repaired our hot water heater, the Christmas lights, oven, etc. I have both analog and digital meters and consider them one of my most useful diagnostic tools.
 
SuperDave said:
GP: I have often made reference to multimeters but have never written a thread specifically on their operation.

OK. I must have remembered wrong. I know someone started one and we had a lot of good discussion in it. I remember because I took pics of my meter setup for different readings to help someone with their questions.

Good to see you posting again SD
 
Thanks, guys. I'll give it a whirl, hopefully before the next snow!

I actually think I have that book from Radio Shack around here somewhere, I just can't find it. Is it called "Using Your Meter"? That's what I remember, anyway. Haven't seen it in a while (obviously) :nonono: