Difference between revisions of "Ignition timing"

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[[Image:picture-of-cdi-and-points.jpg|right|thumb|picture of cdi and points]]

The ~~point at which~~ relative to crankshaft rotation ~~or piston position~~, the ignition ~~spark occurs~~.

The process of setting the time that a spark will occur in the engine [[combustion chamber]] (during the [[power stroke]]) relative to [[piston]] position or [[crankshaft]] rotation. Setting the correct ignition timing is crucial in the performance of an engine. The ignition timing affects many variables including engine longevity, fuel economy, and engine power. Modern engines that are controlled by an [[engine control unit]] use a computer to control the timing throughout the engine’s RPM range. Older engines that use mechanical spark [[distributor]]s rely on inertia (by using rotating weights and springs) and manifold vacuum in order to set the ignition timing throughout the engine’s [[RPM range]].

==Timing==

==Setting Ignition Timing==

Ignition timing seems to be the one thing that terrifies the home mechanic most. I've seen guys leap right into gear boxes, tear off top ends without the slightest hesitation. But set the ignition timing? NO WAY ... they are scared stiff of it. Others figure they can throw in a new set of points, set the gap with a matchbook cover and drive on. In reality there is no reason to fear ignition timing or to do it haphazardly. Ignition timing is quite simple and the benefits to be gained are great ... namely more power, longer engine life and better gas mileage.

Difference between revisions of "Ignition timing"

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@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
 [[Image:picture-of-cdi-and-points.jpg|right|thumb|picture of cdi and points]]
-The point at which relative to crankshaft rotation or piston position, the ignition spark occurs.
+The process of setting the time that a spark will occur in the engine [[combustion chamber]] (during the [[power stroke]]) relative to [[piston]] position or [[crankshaft]] rotation. Setting the correct ignition timing is crucial in the performance of an engine. The ignition timing affects many variables including engine longevity, fuel economy, and engine power. Modern engines that are controlled by an [[engine control unit]] use a computer to control the timing throughout the engine’s RPM range. Older engines that use mechanical spark [[distributor]]s rely on inertia (by using rotating weights and springs) and manifold vacuum in order to set the ignition timing throughout the engine’s [[RPM range]].
-==Timing==
+==Setting Ignition Timing==
 Ignition timing seems to be the one thing that terrifies the home mechanic most. I've seen guys leap right into gear boxes, tear off top ends without the slightest hesitation. But set the ignition timing? NO WAY ... they are scared stiff of it. Others figure they can throw in a new set of points, set the gap with a matchbook cover and drive on. In reality there is no reason to fear ignition timing or to do it haphazardly. Ignition timing is quite simple and the benefits to be gained are great ... namely more power, longer engine life and better gas mileage.