Draper 6-24V Automotive Circuit Tester

The Everyday Essential for Automotive Electrical Testing

Whether you're tracing a blown fuse, checking a faulty switch or confirming power at a connector, a quality circuit tester is one of the most-reached-for tools in any automotive workshop. The Draper 1181-B delivers exactly what you need — straightforward, dependable performance for testing DC circuits across a wide range of vehicle types.

From classic 6V vehicles and everyday 12V cars to 24V commercial trucks and vans, this circuit tester handles the full range of common automotive voltages with ease.

Long Reach Where You Need It

The 180mm insulated blade sets this tester apart from shorter, more limited alternatives. Whether you're probing deep into a connector block, reaching behind a dashboard, or accessing a circuit buried in an engine bay, the extra length means you can get to the test point cleanly and safely — without risking contact with adjacent terminals or live metalwork.

The blade's insulation protects against accidental shorts throughout its length, giving you confidence when working in confined or crowded spaces.

Tangle-Free Testing with the Recoil Lead

The 3.6m recoil lead is a practical feature that makes a real difference in day-to-day use. Unlike a standard fixed cable that trails across the floor or tangles around your hands, the recoil lead extends when you need the reach and springs back neatly when you don't — keeping your workspace clear and your lead out of harm's way. At full extension, 3.6m gives you enough reach to test circuits from one end of any vehicle to the other from a single earth point.

Secure Earth Connection

The heavy duty insulated crocodile clip provides a firm, positive earth connection on bodywork, battery terminals or chassis points. The heavy duty construction means it grips securely and stays put throughout testing — no slipping, no intermittent connections, no false readings.

Key Features & Benefits

• 180mm insulated blade — Extra reach for deep access to connectors, switches and tight circuits
• Full-length blade insulation — Safe operation in confined spaces with adjacent live components
• 3.6m recoil lead — Self-retracting for tangle-free use and a tidier working environment
• Heavy duty crocodile clip — Firm, reliable earth connection on any metal surface
• 6–24V DC testing range — Covers 6V classics, 12V cars and motorcycles, and 24V commercial vehicles
• Lightweight at 180g — Comfortable for extended use without fatigue
• Clear and simple operation — No setup required; essential tool for quick circuit checks

Who Is It For?

The Draper 1181-B is an ideal everyday circuit tester for professional mechanics, auto electricians, commercial vehicle technicians and competent DIY enthusiasts. Its 24V capability makes it particularly useful for anyone working across both light vehicles and heavier commercial transport — one tool that does the job on cars and trucks alike.

It's also a practical choice for agricultural and plant machinery technicians, classic car restorers working with 6V systems, and marine engineers dealing with 12V or 24V boat electrics.

Important Safety Note

This circuit tester is designed for DC vehicle circuits only, within the 6–24V testing range. It is not suitable for testing mains supply AC circuits. Always ensure the tool is used within its rated voltage range.

Technical Specifications

• Tests 6V, 12V and 24V DC vehicle electrical circuits
• 180mm insulated blade for safe access to deep or tight circuits
• Self-retracting 3.6m recoil lead — tangle-free and always tidy
• Heavy duty insulated crocodile clip for a secure earth connection
• Suitable for cars, motorcycles, commercial vehicles, vans and HGVs
• Lightweight at 180g — comfortable for one-handed use
• DC circuits only — not for use on mains AC supply
• Product Code: 1181-B | Brand: Draper

Q: What voltage systems can the Draper 1181-B test? The 1181-B is rated for DC circuits in the 6–24V range, making it suitable for 6V classic vehicles, standard 12V cars and motorcycles, and 24V commercial vehicles, vans and HGVs. It must not be used on AC mains supply circuits.

Q: Can I use this on a lorry or HGV? Yes. The 24V DC upper limit makes the Draper 1181-B perfectly suited to commercial vehicles, including lorries, coaches, minibuses and agricultural machinery that run on 24V electrical systems.

Q: Why is the recoil lead useful? A recoil lead automatically retracts when not under tension, unlike a fixed cable that trails and tangles. This keeps your workspace cleaner and safer, and the 3.6m extension gives you enough reach to earth at the battery and probe circuits throughout the vehicle without moving the clip.

Q: Is the 180mm blade better than a standard short probe? For most workshop use, yes. The extra length lets you reach further into connector blocks, behind panels and into engine bay components without the blade being obstructed — or without risking accidental contact with neighbouring live terminals if you're using a shorter, less precise tool.

Q: Is this suitable for a classic car with a 6V system? Yes. The lower end of the testing range covers 6V DC systems, making this a useful tool for owners and restorers of older classic vehicles that pre-date the universal adoption of 12V electrics.