Multimeter Troubleshooting Tutorial

[MikesRJ 558]

Do you prefer analog or digital?

I'm sure Chuck will go into the purpose and benefits of each! Won't you SOI? :party:

[Save Old Iron 1,573]

tophatbuffalo,

I will give a brief summary of the differences between analog and digital meters in the tutorial.

However, I realize you may want investigate the purchase of a meter now.

Here is a meter you may want to consider (I do not own this meter but have mentioned it for several reasons below)

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_03482337000P?mv=rr

a few reasons

1/ I believe a digital is a little easier for interpreting the correct reading displayed - on a digital meter, you only need to look at the digits and scale of the reading

an analog meter will have several different scales on the meter face and you will need to make sure your reading the proper scale and then interpret the hash marks between the numbers for a final reading - kind of like reading a micrometer or dial gauge.

2/ the meter is fused - protects itself from errors you may make.

Also, the fuses are user replaceable and are not exotic high cost devices like I have in my FLuke brand meters that cost $10 each to replace.

3/ the meter as an "incorrect hookup" warning

if you try to measure 20 amps on the 1 amp scale - it lets you know before you hook up the leads to the circuit your testing

4/ it has a 20 AMP DC scale - most meters have a 10 AMP scale -

20 Amp scale gives you more flexibility in checking out the 15 amp charging circuits on most newer tractors.

5/ it has a thermocouple capable temperature adapter at extra cost - buy it when and if you need it. It's a highly accurate digital thermometer.

6/ $$ cost is very reasonable

7/ availability at Sears - and has a decent warranty period.

I would like anyone who has a meter specific comment on the above thread - please jump to this post

http://www.wheelhorseforum.com/index.php?...topic=15880&hl=

and log your comment there. This way we can develop some material for the tutorial.