Ignition System: Description and Operation

System Schematic Diagram:

The Solid State Ignition (SSI) is made up of: distributor with pick-up coil, Micro Computer Control Unit (MCU), Knock Sensor, ignition control module, and ignition coil. The pick-up coil in the distributor sends ignition timing signals to the MCU, where they are processed and sent to the ignition control module where they are used to trigger the ignition coil. Voltage to the ignition coil is reduced by resistor wire (R1) when the ignition switch is in the RUN position and is bypassed only when the ignition switch is in the START position. Conventional centrifugal and vacuum advance systems combine to control the ignition advance curve. If the engine knock sensor detects any knocking, it sends a signal to the MCU that will automatically retard ignition timing as required.