MTFCA Forum

when replacing the capacitor in a buzz coil, other than tar, can some other product be used around the capacitor? if not, where would one buy the tar in small amounts?

In the past I have used expanding foam with excellent results. I have also seen silicone RTV used to secure the capacitor.
These days, I just remelt the old pitch in a tin can over a blowtorch and use that. Only enough to keep the capacitor secure is required.

Tar should be used. It wicks away moisture as it's poured in and then keeps it out - protecting the internals from corrosion. It should cover all internals. Believe it or not, some Home Depot stores sell Type III roofing asphalt in 100lb kegs. You might be able to get some in small amounts (scrap chunks) from a roofing company. Good luck.

In my opinion, silicone is a bad idea. It will corrode the wires over time. I feel tar is the best and should not be used sparingly. I'm a shade tree mechanic from way back and can cut a corner with the best of them, but I ain't a gonna do it there.

I've seen all types of "filler" material in coils sent to me for rebuilding... also many types and shapes of condensers. Tar will not only keep moisture away from the wiring, it will stabilize the position of all internal elements... a plus in my book due to the vibrations of engine/drive train and/or road conditions. Yes, extra precautions must be taken when working with fluid hot tar, burns will be nasty..... not for the unaware.

I've done about 20 coils in total and never needed to buy tar. I do save every bit that comes out and I makeup the space difference between the new and old capacitor by adding bits of wood cut to fit. Tar is melted outside using a propane torch in a small metal can with a pre bent spout and a vice grip for a handle.

Some time ago I was in a hurry and didn't use gloves when I was filling three coils with tar.
This is what happened.

Be careful and take care use good gloves to protect your skin.

Andre
Belgium

Hal wrote: ↑

Fri Feb 22, 2019 7:22 am

In my opinion, silicone is a bad idea. It will corrode the wires over time.

Needs to be neutral cure silicone.

Silicone has been rejected ..... period.

Silicon should never be used in there. Yuck.

Ever try to get thick silicone out of an area with limited space, good luck especially if there are wires or fragile parts involved. Most silicones will corrode wiring.

After all of my reading and research posted on this forum by these brilliant mentors I have learned to use only Type III Steep Roofing Tar. I searched high and low at the roofing supply houses here in Missouri and no one wanted to sell me some and most asked my if I was doing drugs or using it to make drugs! I finally called the Union local and asked for a list of Commercial Flat Roofing contractors. I called the one closest to home and asked if he would be willing to sell me some. He said this type of tar is becoming very uncommon but he had some in the shop. I showed up, with a coil in hand. He was fascinated by the coil and broke off about 20# of the brick and refused to take any payment. I bought a electric hot plate from Walmart for 9$ and a 5$ sauce pan and all is well.