On Sun, 17 Jun 2012 14:06:01 -0700, Old Volks Home <oldvolkshome@GMAIL.COM> wrote: >In general, the Ignition Module (ICU) on 80-85 models (the one on the >left engine wall) is a sealed unit, so repair of these is extremely >difficult, if at all. How is it sealed, with epoxy? I wasn't planning to repair it but rather be able to test it externally. It's just an amplifier for the HALL sender signal + some kind of power transistor driver for the ignition coil. Probably just a few transistors/resistors/capacitors. How complex can the circuit be?... > The module on the 86-91 models is integrated >inside the ECU, so there is a remote chance that can be serviced. If it's the power transistor driver in the ECU that's gone bad, it can be serviced. >The Hall Unit in the distributor (80-85 and 86-91, which both are >different) is another minefield when it comes to a field repair. Yep, because you also have to set the timing again after dismantling the distributor. Still, I wonder if there's active circuitry inside the hall sender device because it gets 12V power. Once I know the circuitry, it'll be much easier to diagnose a problem. Currently I have a rare intermittent in the hall sender, maybe it's just a loose wire much easier to repair than replace the whole sender or distributor. >I carry a spare of each with me on both my 84s since losing a hall >unit function near Klamath Falls, OR in 1998. How do you set timing on the road without a timing light? > If I owned an 86-91, I would always carry a spare ECU. Yep, that's my goal too, also with the digitool interface and display box which will keep me out of the dark in case of a failure. >But that's just me, based on on a 50+ >year habit of carrying critical spares (Cables, etc.,) for my VWs. 50+?...wow! I won't guess your age... That's a good habit even for younger drivers. I'm trying to improve in this respect, though from my experience field diagnosis often helps solve the problem even without part replacement (loose/dirty connectors somewhere). >You'd be surprised at what I carry for replacement spares in Rear >Seatbox of my Westy. It would be interesting to hear the highlights...:D |
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