On topic: Serious static problem

From: Russ Blakeman <rhblake_at_bigfoot.com>
Date: Fri Dec 4 16:07:18 1998

Don Maslin wrote:

> On Fri, 4 Dec 1998, Aaron Christopher Finney wrote:
>
> > This is giving me fits. There's something strange with my minivan, that it
> > generates a *ton* of static electricity whenever I drive even a few
> > blocks. When I touch the metal of the door upon getting out, I get a
> > shock that hurts all the way up to the shoulder. The real problem, and
> > what makes this on topic, is that I use this vehicle to pick-up/transport
> > my classic beauties everywhere. I'm terrified that I'm going to pick up
> > that once-in-a-lifetime S-100 rescue or something and kill the guts with
> > one of these lightning bolts. What I do now is keep a wrist-strap and a
> > box of Bounce dryer sheets (don't laugh) in my jockey box. Does anyone
> > know what could be causing this?
> >
> >
> >
> > Aaron C. Finney Systems Administrator WFI Incorporated
> > ------------------------------------------------------------------------
> > "UNIX is an exponential algorithm with a seductively small constant."
> >
>
> My guess would be the upholstery and the seat of your pants. It is
> obvious that you and the vehicle are not at the same potential!
>
> - don

He needs to quit wearing his wife's underwear (just kidding). The wonderful world of
nylon upholstery has created such a wonderful place for static in a totally isolated
vehicle. This is why fuel trucks have a conductive strap on the road, or even a
piece of chain. This might not be a good idea on the minivan but a good brand of
static spray on the seats and carpets will greatly diminish the problem. Another may
is to be sure to keep the equipment away from the driver and make sure you touch
(ouch) a bare metal part of the van before touching the equipment. A length of
stainless braid wire from the body to the sliding door can also reduce the
possibilty when you slide the side door.

I wonder if leaving the wire braid exposed on your radial tires would work? Again,
just kidding....
Received on Fri Dec 04 1998 - 16:07:18 GMT