1952-59 Ford What do the little "condensers" do?

I have a couple simple questions that I need help with please...

On our "factory" fords, on the ignition module and the fuel sending unit (bolted on back by the tank), there are little tubular, condensor-looking things with one wire coming out of them.

1) What do they do?

2) After converting to the original 239 to a 12 volt neg ground system and using an alternator...do I still need to have it on (the ignition module more importantly)?

Thanks!

Mark

 

The condenser will stop surges and protect the points from pitting. Their use is to p*** AC but block DC, they will also stop noise in your radio.

 

Sweet! Good info! So 6 or 12 volts doesn't make a bit of difference to them I'm guessing.

Thanks!

 

I'm not sure, I know they have a max volt rating, but there may be some out there with only a max 6 volt rating? They're very cheap and can be picked up at any auto parts store.

 

And they are good for charging and just put where some of your young buddies are that have no idea what they are and they'll pick it up and say "what's this" as they grab both ends of it. Then stand by for the show and be sittin' down because it's funnier than hell... Makes me laugh just thinkin' about it.... lol !!!

 

Ha - yeah it's one of those rites of p***age, gettin' zapped by a loaded condenser!

The gas tank sending unit on my '56 also has (or had) a condenser, which I haven't replaced yet. Supposedly it keeps the gage from acting like a GM - it fluctuates wildly while the car's in motion. It'll get replaced this winter.

 

Ron, I don't think I have one on mine and it doesn't fluctuate. I've got a new sending unit though maybe it's different.

 

My original unit had one, I replaced the sender but it didn't come with the condenser. Mac's has them so I'll try it & see if that's it. I replaced the gage too so maybe that has something to do with it.

 

HA! Hilarious! Havent's heard of that one yet. Thanks for the heads up on not touching it though!

Hmmm, good info. I have a new sending unit in the new tank as well, but using the orginal gauge...I guess I'll see what happens when I get it on the road.

I think I may actually go and buy a 12 volt one to replace the 6 volt one on the voltage regulator on the inner fender well though.