Re-energizing Seagull magneto

[Sandro]

Hi everybody,
Some days ago, in a thread concerning Seagulls, Appledore suggested a way of re-energizing old magnetos.
I am not sure to have well understood. I think it was meant to re-magnetizing the permanent magnet in the magneto. The trick consists of spinning the motor without plug (and with an open fuel tap, I 'd add) for about 4 minutes with an electric drill.
I can't see the difference to the magneto between being spinned by a drill and being spinned by the motor in normal working. The magneto would be re-energizing itself all the way during running.
I am probably missing something. The matter is an interesting one. If someone can make it clear to me he will be welcome.

Sandro

PS: B.T.W. I have a 1963 Fourty Plus that I use from time to time, albeit seldom.

 

[rob2]

Tes, exactly. When running the magnet is re-magnetised but to get it to generate enough voltage for a good starting spark, you can spin it over for a few minutes to "prime" it.

Rob.

 

[Appledore]

Hi Sandro,

Yes, my post on the drill.

However, I suggested it, having read it on the 'Saving Old Seagulls' site, after my own Seagull had not been started for a considerable time, probably over 12 years!!

Naturally if your motor is in regular use, the magneto will - or should - remain in good condition. (But I really know little about motors!).

Geoff

 

[DownWest]

After it was put up on the 'S-O-S' site, someone chimed in with a technical explaination of why it worked. Might still be on the site.

BTW, worked for me too.

 

[Sandro]

Re-energizing magnetos

Thanks to all.
I understand that the trick is used for magnetos long left inactive.
I'll look in the SOS site for more details.

Sandro

 

[VicS]

Yes it is just over half way through the FAQs section of the website.

It wont work if the magneto has completely lost its magnetism but the website does explain how to sort this out with a lantern battery.

All will be in vain of course if the coil or condenser is defective!

 

[ghostlymoron]

Hi everybody,
Some days ago, in a thread concerning Seagulls, Appledore suggested a way of re-energizing old magnetos.
I am not sure to have well understood. I think it was meant to re-magnetizing the permanent magnet in the magneto. The trick consists of spinning the motor without plug (and with an open fuel tap, I 'd add) for about 4 minutes with an electric drill.
I can't see the difference to the magneto between being spinned by a drill and being spinned by the motor in normal working. The magneto would be re-energizing itself all the way during running.
I am probably missing something. The matter is an interesting one. If someone can make it clear to me he will be welcome.

Sandro

PS: B.T.W. I have a 1963 Fourty Plus that I use from time to time, albeit seldom.

If your engine will start and run, it doesn't need to be re-magnetised. It's only if there is insufficient magnetism to produce a spark that you need to try this trick. I've never had to do it myself although my Forty Featherweight had not run for many years when I acquired it.

 

[maxi77]

My first car, a 1928 Austin 12/4, had magneto ignition. It was suggested that from time to time it was good to bake the mag in a very low oven for 6 hours or so to dry out the insulation in the windings. This may or may not help other mags.