'69 headlamp washer solonoid

[Jeffrey S.]

Hello all! I would like to test a '69 headlamp washer solenoid off the car to see if the double sided "needle" moves toward the headlamp wash port with current as designed. I opened it up and both the needle and spring are like new. The coil has continuity through it. My question is, if I put 12 volts through it will I fry something? These are too hard to find and too expensive to take a chance on ruining one. Any help is appreciated.
Jeff

[Patrick H.]

Re: '69 headlamp washer solonoid

Jeff,

Gary Schisler told me that he uses an old AC/DC "transformer" to supply 12v to solenoids and it has worked well for him. I've used low amps (2?) on a battery charger for idle solenoids with success.

Hope that helps.

Patrick

[Terry M.]

Re: '69 headlamp washer solonoid

Jeff,

Gary Schisler told me that he uses an old AC/DC "transformer" to supply 12v to solenoids and it has worked well for him. I've used low amps (2?) on a battery charger for idle solenoids with success.

Hope that helps.

Patrick

I would be very interested in seeing that AC/DC transformer. Or were you referring to a "music" (If one could call it that) group?

[Jack H.]

Re: '69 headlamp washer solonoid

Some garden variety transformers simply convert AC to 'lumpy' DC which can make a solenoid 'twitch' instead of snap closed crisply. I've yet to see an automotive grade solenoid that can't take a direct application 12 VDC to test its actuation. They're pretty hearty critters because B+ voltage in a auto setting varies with the current charging state of the generator/alternator, so they're designed from the git go to tolerate appreciable over-voltage situations...

[Jeffrey S.]

Re: '69 headlamp washer solonoid

Patrick, Terry, and Jack:
I have a true 12 volt DC power supply that I use for plating and is variable from 0-3A. I will try that. I am not very good at electrical stuff so I need some assurances that I won't let all the black smoke out of the wires. That is how electricity works isn't it? The system is filled with black smoke and if you break a wire or short it out the smoke is released? Thank you for your help.
Jeff

[Terry M.]

Re: '69 headlamp washer solonoid

Yes Jeff, that is how electricity works. On top of the escaping smoke looking bad, it stinks like crazy.

And for Jack -- how about next time we get together you bring me one of those DC transformers? Eh buddy?

[Dick W.]

Re: '69 headlamp washer solonoid

Rule #1 of Lucas's Law, keep smoke in wires
Rule #2 See rule #1