Ignition System: Description and Operation

The ignition system includes a battery, a distributor, an ignition switch, spark plugs, and the primary and secondary wiring.

The High Energy Ignition (HEI) system controls fuel combustion by providing a spark to ignite the compressed air/fuel mixture at the correct time. To provide improved engine performance, fuel economy, and control of exhaust emissions, spark advance is controlled by a vacuum control unit and centrifugal advance weights, which will increase ignition timing under the appropriate conditions.