Ignition System: Description and Operation

Electronic Ignition System:

The Electronic Ignition System consists of an Electronic Control Unit (ECU), coil, ignition resistor, and single or dual pick-up distributor. The cowl mounted ECU receives ignition timing signals from the distributor. These signals are generated when a rotating reluctor on the distributor shaft induces a voltage pulse in the pick-up coil. This pulse is transmitted through the pickup coil to the power switching transistor in the ECU and causes the transistor to interrupt the current flow through the primary circuit. This break in the primary circuit induces a high voltage in the secondary coil circuit and fires a spark plug.