Having the right engine in your car or truck is essential for ensuring that your ride is smooth and that your automobile is running as efficiently as possible. There is a wide range of ignition systems on the market, all of which provide advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the differences is essential for choosing the right one for your vehicle.
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Magneto Ignition Systems
The simplest type of ignition system, Magneto systems are sometimes referred to as inductive discharge systems. They work best for two-stroke engines but are inconsistent for four-strokes. They are most often used on lightweight tools, go-karts, and small aircraft. The system consists of a flywheel that used a fixed electrical coil connected to two spark plugs and a transformer that boosts voltage. The magnet passes through the coil and creates voltage that builds up to create a spark. There is no battery in this type of system.
Conventional Distributor Ignition System
Most often known as the Kettering ignition, the conventional distributor ignition system is the most common type used on multi-cylinder engines, such as cars, trucks, and boats. A popular one is the Holley Sniper ignition system. It consists of a battery, an ignition coil that builds up energy, and a current-limiting resistor. It also has a distributor for directing the energy, spark plugs that heats the mixture of fuel and air, and a switch that lets the current flow through the conductor. Finally, another switch, which is known as the contact breaker, forces the inductor to discharge into the spark plugs.
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Capacitive Discharge Ignition System
A capacitive discharge system produces large peak voltages, making them popular among automotive markets. This system uses a capacitor, transformer, and switch to store the energy and boost it to go to the spark plugs. The capacitor is used to build the charge from a battery or generator. It then goes to the transformer via a transistor or switch. It’s important to note that when used on a real engine, the system can never achieve its maximum voltage. Other specifications are usually more important, including the total spark energy, which the ignition coil dictates.
Fuel Injector Kits For Engines
Chances are no matter what type of engine you have, you’ll want to soup it up some, which means using fuel injection kits. Fuel injection systems are meant to make your car run more efficiently while providing a smoother ride. This means it has the right ratio of fuel to air as it works its way through the engine. These kits use a special pump that puts the fuel under pressure from the tank to the engine bay. There, while still under pressure, it will individually distribute to each cylinder. It’s important to do your research before introducing an SBC Holley Sniper or any other type of ignition system into your vehicle. If you are new to the process, it is always helpful to ask professionals for more information and recommendations. Of course, you should always have professional work on your vehicle as well to ensure it remains safe.
