Sa200 won't idle up when arc is struck, reed switch?

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I was welding and all of a sudden the machine won't idle up when I strike an arc, the rod sparkles a littleThe machine starts up fine, goes into high idle and then idles down like normalIf I push on the idle bar, you can hear it idling upI've been told it could be a bad reed switch, but I can't find it at all... I can't find the pc board or idler board... I know the reed switch is  by the high range selector, connected to the negative lead connector I've read that I should disconnect the red wire and ground it out to see if the machine will idle up when arc is struck...Where would the reed switch, pc board be located? I've been looking behind the high range selector for this red wire but no goAny suggestions? I'll get some pictures tomorrow
Reply:Sounds like it may be an older unit with a vacuum idler and not the newer electronic version.Got a machine code number or any photos of the mag/carburetor side of the unit?MM200 w/Spoolmatic 1Syncrowave 180SDBobcat 225G Plus - LP/NGMUTT Suitcase WirefeederWC-1S/Spoolmatic 1HF-251D-1PakMaster 100XL '68 Red Face Code #6633 projectStar Jet 21-110

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Reply:103260 is the code on the machineI'll look for pictures nowI think it is a vaccum idler, Any ideas?It's almost like the governor dosnt engage or the idler isn't disengaging... Nothing mechanical moves on that side of the machine when the arc is struck, but if I move it, it idles high like it should.... A solenoid not working?Last edited by then3wguy; 12-17-2012 at 08:54 PM.
Reply:That looks like the SN.  Code# is only 4 digits.If in fact the R-57 vacuum idler, there is no control board or reed switch.  Problem could be due to a failed idler valve coil or stuck (dirty) needle valve.MM200 w/Spoolmatic 1Syncrowave 180SDBobcat 225G Plus - LP/NGMUTT Suitcase WirefeederWC-1S/Spoolmatic 1HF-251D-1PakMaster 100XL '68 Red Face Code #6633 projectStar Jet 21-110

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Reply:Ah sorry, the code is K6090Which end would the needle be in to clean the valve? Would it be difficult to fix a failed valve coil?I'm still learning my machine, not really sure how I'd go about fixing this problemI'm hoping it's not to serious, or would I need to upgrade to an automatic idler system? 500$ + I appreciate your help, ty
Reply:This should look similar to your K6090 unit . . .http://www.lincolnelectric.com/asset...oln3/im208.pdf. . . and these cover the R-57 idler and other aspects of engine operation and adjustments.http://www.lincolnelectric.com/asset...oln3/im179.pdfhttp://www.lincolnelectric.com/asset...n3/IM179G1.pdfTo check the idler coil, remove the two yellow wires connected to the idler housing and check for continuity across the two terminal studs.  An open would confirm a failed coil.Also check the connection where the yellow wire from the idler connects to the (+) weld output stud and check the connection of the other yellow wire going to the idler from the main (+) brush holder (under the main brush cover). If it turns out the idler solenoid coil has failed, current options are to find an operating used unit or upgrade to the newer electronic style that can be had for a little over $300 . . .http://www.mcssl.com/store/4833177/sa-200-idler-partshttp://hybriweld.com/products/idler-...6f40fb127fae18. . . to just under $400 . . .http://www.stumpfweldingsupplies.com/NEW_200Parts2.html. . . or your $500+ (all genuine Lincoln parts).http://www.billswelderrepair.com/sa200idlerparts.htmlMM200 w/Spoolmatic 1Syncrowave 180SDBobcat 225G Plus - LP/NGMUTT Suitcase WirefeederWC-1S/Spoolmatic 1HF-251D-1PakMaster 100XL '68 Red Face Code #6633 projectStar Jet 21-110

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Reply:I'm having the same problem except mine will not idle down its stuck in high idle duaneb55 if you ever have the time could you help me diagnose my machine