How to tell a Choke with no label?

[somethin'else]

Hi All,

I just installed a C1999 8H choke to replace one that didn't have a label in my Metro 50w 1987Lead.

The no label one is brand new looking, but no markings to tell what it is... 3H, 5H, etc.
It kind of looks exactly like the C1999 (which kind of makes me feel stupid ), U frame, same steel clamps underneath. But then I've never seen a Merc choke either, so it could be anything!?


Is there a way to measure or tell what this puppy is?
Or would listening to them in comparison for raw and open vs tighter and compressed be the only way?
Hmm, without a label, maybe the ear's are the only way...

Silly question I guess, but I'd like to know for Henries' sake!

Thanks

[snoof]

You need a LCR meter to measure the inductance. There are some around for cheap.

[somethin'else]

Thanks snoof. Will this do it? I was measuring a pickup in the pic.



What setting for reading inductance? I've read caps with the MFD setting (I'm pretty sure...).
Would I tap each end of the choke wires with the amp live, with signal running through it?
If this meter will do it, I'd appreciate a how-to, as I've done solder, taken measurements through the amp, set bias, and retro-installed transformers etc.
... and I'm safe!! (but still a newbie)

Anyway, 'preciate it.

[snoof]

No, that meter won't work. It has no inductance setting. Here's some...

http://www.google.com/products?q=lcr+me ... CC4QrQQwAA

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LCR_meter

Just put the probes across the choke, one on each lead (disconnected from the crkt) w/ the meter on the inductance setting. Then measure resistance, then you have your numbers (henries and ohms).

[somethin'else]

Nice, thanks for that snoop. I'll pick one up.

I'm techtarded when it comes to understanding the relationship of capacitance, resistance, inductance... lowering and raising values is reverse to normal thinking... it's like a different planet or language for some reason. I think I have to switch into right-brain-swim-mode to get it. Weird. Like how water flows. Ahem, I digress.

I CAN solder like a mofo, and read AC and DC though, heh.

Thanks for the tip!