Electric bbq grill igniter trouble

Boom! The classic potato gun harnesses the combustion of flammable vapor.
artillerycreations
Private 3
Private 3
Posts: 46
Joined: Wed Dec 23, 2009 2:38 pm

I have used this type igniter with much success before. Once with two sparks just like it is meant to be. Another time i was feeling i could use a little more spark so i wired three sparks into the chamber using a common ground off the igniter. Now i am having serious trouble. I tried to divide up both sparks and i cant get it to spark in the chamber. Im not talking bad connections or too big of a spark gap. My gap total is maybe 2 mm. All wires have been replaced. If i make one spark run in series through both sets of screws and then make it run back to the igniter it wont spark, however, all i have to do is touch my finger to the last screws head and then the sparks will jump the gaps. Im mega lost and any help would be appreciated.
User avatar
jimmy101
Sergeant Major 2
Sergeant Major 2
United States of America
Posts: 3210
Joined: Wed Mar 28, 2007 9:48 am
Location: Greenwood, Indiana
Has thanked: 6 times
Been thanked: 18 times
Contact:

-All the gaps must be in series (none parallel).
-The total gap shouldn't exceed about 3mm (1/8").
-All electrical contacts must be at least OK.
-The gauge of the wire doesn't matter.
-All wire must be kept well separated from each other otherwise the spark may jump from wire to wire through the insulation.
-All wires need to be kept well separated from anything conductive. ("Well separated is perhaps 2x the total gap.)
-Electrodes with sharp points will work much better than ones with dull points, especially with multiple spark gaps.

If you short the last gap with your finger and that makes the other gaps work then you have too much total gap or not enough voltage.
Image
artillerycreations
Private 3
Private 3
Posts: 46
Joined: Wed Dec 23, 2009 2:38 pm

Thanks ill give it more attention.
Post Reply

Create an account or sign in to join the discussion

You need to be a member in order to post a reply

Create an account

Not a member? register to join our community
Members can start their own topics & subscribe to topics
It’s free and only takes a minute

Register

Sign in

  • Similar Topics
    Replies
    Views
    Last post