Electronic Ignition System

Ignition system circuit consists of a battery, distributor, ignition switch, spark plugs, igniter, and primary and secondary wiring. An Ignition Control (IC) system is used that is monitored and controlled by the ECM. An ignition noise suppressor condenser and noise suppressor filter are used. Noise suppressor filter provides ignition signal for tachometer (if equipped).

Distributor uses a signal generator (signal rotor and pick-up coil/Camshaft Position (CMP) sensor) to produce ignition pulses through externally mounted igniter. Igniter is located under ignition coil and mounted on right side of firewall in engine compartment.

Power for ignition coil and igniter is provided through 15-amp IG-COIL METER fuse, located in fuse block below left side of steering column. Fuse receives power when ignition is turned on. Ground circuit for ignition coil is regulated by ECM through igniter.

As rotating signal rotor passes pole piece of pick-up coil/CMP sensor, a reference signal is sent to ECM, which uses this signal to determine when to signal igniter to open ground circuit for primary ignition. When igniter opens ground circuit for primary ignition, magnetic field around ignition coil windings collapses, producing an induced high voltage surge used to operate the spark plugs.