John,

I'm not that familiar with the VW circuits but one fact which might
explain the Bentley warnings is that when a meter (VOM) is set up for
measuring resistance, there is actually a voltage between the 2 leads & it
*IS* possible to damage some sensitive circuits.  How much voltage depends
on the meter settings & meter design.  If you're curious, you can measure
this voltage with a 2nd meter.  However, when in voltage measurement mode,
most meters (that I'm familiar with) do not inject a voltage into the
target circuit.

Hope that helps.

//Jack

On 17 Sep 2002, at 21:19, John Reynolds wrote:

> In the Bently for an air cooled Cal. Edition (Hall sender) it boldy
> states (Pg 28.8) Do not connect any test instrument on terminal 15 (+) of
> igniton coil, this could damage electronic parts."
>
> Then 28.10 has resistance checks between terminals 1 + 15 (+ & - ) on the
> coil.  OK, well it says to disconnect all wires so it makes sense that you
> would not damage any "eceltronic" items.  BUT then on page28.14, it
> instructs yu to take a volt reading to terminal 15 with everthing hooked up
> to the coil - what gives??
>
> Will I damage the said "Electronic parts" if I take the volt reading per
> the hall control check on page 28.14 - is it OK since the idle stabilizer
> is disconnected?
>
> Please p-mail, I in lurking mode.
>
> John R
> 81 Westy Cal. model