How To Tell If Problem With Olympic Kiln Is Elements Or Relay

[augal]

I have olympic kiln model S18HE  cone 10  240v kiln with bartlett controller.  It has two connected elements that will not heat up when i did the test i found online.. 1 and 3 lit up and 2 and 4 did not.  how to check to be sure it is the element and not the relay before i order parts to fix? I am pretty good with basic wiring and can use amp or ohm meter  ....have pulled cover and there is no obvious issue visible so it is a matter of testing.  i am thinking element failure for a couple of reasons. any advice is welcome.   

[neilestrick]

If 2 and 4 connect to the same relay, then it's probably the relay. You can always do a continuity test of the elements with your meter to see if there's a break. If you're willing to do a test with the kiln panel open and powered up, turn the kiln on and test the outgoing terminals on the relays with your meter.

[Denice]

My husband restores old cars for a hobby, he always tells me it you can't decide between two solutions to a problem.  Start with the easiest and cheapest and go from there.  You may end up with a new part when you didn't need it right now or you may have fixed it.   Denice

[alabama]

If all the elements are the same length they should have the same resistance if you ohmed each one. If its a relay, try finding a part number on it to cross reference. Should be able to find one at an electrical supply store near Auburn.

Good luck!

Alabama

[murf]

element of the same length can have different ohm resistance , the size of the wire changes the resistance , the answer from Neil Estrick  addresses your problem very well , good luck , keep us informed.