Covers operating principles of electronic ignition systems. Topics include high energy systems, control modules, waste spark ignition, and all related ignition components. Diagnosis and testing utilize oscilloscope patterns and hand-held scanners. Also covers performance tuning, special problems, and low-emission tune-ups. Laboratory activities.
Goals, Topics, and Objectives
- Review of basic electricity, magnetism, semiconductors and solid state electronics.
- Review of the combustion process.
- The ignition system and engine operation
- Ignition primary circuit, secondary circuits and components.
- Ignition timing and spark advance control.
- Electronic ignition systems.
- Distributor-less (DIS) ignition systems
- High data rate ignition systems and misfire monitors.
- Oscilloscope and testing equipment.
- On Board Diagnostic terminology and testing
- Recognize modern ignition system components.
- Install common ignition system parts.
- Diagnose engine malfunctions relating to the ignition system.
- Perform basic ignition timing tests.
- Measure electrical parameters relating to coil output, required ignition voltage and spark timing.
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 tuning a four cycle engine.