Distributor: Description and Operation

PURPOSE
Distributor directs high voltage ignition coil output to the spark plugs in proper sequence (firing order). To accomplish this, a rotor on the driven shaft acts as a rotary contact, directing ignition coil voltage to each spark plug terminal as it turns inside the distributor cap.

OPERATION
The Distributor Ignition (DI) system features a camshaft driven distributor, which uses no centrifugal or vacuum advance. This system also features a computer-controlled dwell ignition. Ignition timing is controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). Rotation is counterclockwise.
The distributor houses the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS), ignition coil, ignition control module (ICM), Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) and rotor. The CPS informs the PCM of Crankshaft rotation. The CMP sends a signal to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This signal is used for detection of the No. 1 cylinder Top Dead Center (TDC) position.
Within the distributor, the ignition coil transfers the secondary voltage to the distributor rotor. The distributor rotor transfers the voltage to each spark plug wire.
The distributor operates by using a Hall effect vane switch assembly, which causes the ignition coil to be switched "OFF" and "ON."

CONSTRUCTION
This distributor has a die cast base which incorporates the Hall effect stator assembly.
The vane switch is an encapsulated package consisting of a Hall sensor on one side and a permanent magnet on the other side.