Distributor: Description and Operation

Ignition Distributor:

PURPOSE
Directs high voltage ignition coil output to spark plugs in proper sequence (firing order). 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.

LOCATION
Left front side of engine.

OPERATION
Inside the distributor, a pick-up coil/igniter assembly is mounted to the breaker plate. A signal rotor on the driven shaft turns past the pick-up coil, triggering the igniter to interrupt the coil primary ground connection each time a spark plug is to fire. A separate pick-up coil generates a signal ("G" signal) utilized by the ECU to calculate fuel injection timing and ignition timing.