This might be a dumb question...

I've been looking through my FSM and I can't find anything about this part. It's not in the wiring diagram, the ignition diagrams or the emissions control diagrams.

It's got one wire and its connected to the positive post on my ignition coil. This is on the drivers side inner fender.

What is it?

It is a capacitor,which is basically similar to the condensor in a points-type ignition system. The item you are asking about is part of a "noise supression" sytem added to many cars. You might also see one on the back of your alternator, and another attached to the right inner fender near your voltage regulator. Their job was/is to absorb RF to keep it from being picked up by your radio or stereo.

Is there a contemporary equivalent? Since you can't really test them, it might just be easier to replace. I would bet those old wires are "noisy."

Originally posted by TomoHawk

Is there a contemporary equivalent? Since you can't really test them, it might just be easier to replace. I would bet those old wires are "noisy."

I don't know if there is a contemporary equivalent.

I do know that Chloe at MidwestZ was not able to get a replacement for that (pictured) item for me.

Since those things will eventualy fail, from heat , humidity & time, they will need to be replaced. I would think that it -might- have a deterimental effect if connected to certain circuits.

early to mid mustangs were very noisy and always had the noise suppresors near the coil, or some form of one.

check almost any ford supply house and you should find some thing to suit your needs very easily.

Dave.

Sure you can test a capacitor. Just do what the mechanics did when I worked at a dealership. They always kept one charged up by pulling a plug wire and put it on the capacitor wire. Then when a salesman from up front wandered in back they would hand it to him. After the salesman had it in his hand it took about 2 seconds for him to touch the wire end while holding the body. When he was knocked on his arse you know it was good. 35K volts. Great fun! After awhile they learned to stay up front in the showroom.