An intermediate-level course covering the operating principles, construction, troubleshooting and maintenance of units of the automotive ignition system, including distributors, coils, electronic controls and advance mechanisms. Studies ignition timing, wiring, and ignition malfunctions as well as electronic ignition systems and ignition-related emission controls.
Goals, Topics, and Objectives
- Introduction to ignition systems
- Engine 4 stroke operating principles
- Ignition coil design and operation
- Ignition timing mechanisms and procedures
- Computer controlled timing systems
- Base ignition component testing
- Spark plug replacement interval and procedure
- Distributor removal and installation procedure
- Electronic system components and testing base operation
- Recognize and identify selected modern ignition systems components.
- Interpret results of analog oscilloscope analyzer patterns.*
- Interpret results of digital oscilloscope analyzer patterns.*
- Perform secondary ignition tests.*
- Perform primary ignition tests.*
- Diagnose engine malfunctions relating to the vehicle ignition systems.
- Diagnose a crank no start condition.*
- Check and adjust ignition timing.
- Static time a distributor.
Assessment and Requirements
Measurable objectives will be evaluated by the instructor based on accuracy and proficiency and completion of assigned tasks. Attendance, homework, class participation, lab activities, quizzes and tests will be used as criteria to assign the student’s final earned grade for this class.
Students must take notes on demonstrations, carefully read and analyze assigned course materials and perform exercises to determine their competence in servicing modern ignition systems.