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Electronic Ignition System

NOTE: The electronic ignition system may be referred to as Electronic Spark Advance (ESA).

The electronic ignition system uses the Engine Control Module (ECM) for determining ignition timing (spark advance). The ECM determines ignition timing (spark advance) based on various input signals. Following input signals may be used: engine coolant temperature sensor, throttle position signal, oxygen sensor, engine RPM, vehicle speed sensor, A/C switch, brakelight signal, airflow meter, knock sensor, electrical load, MAP sensor and cranking (starter) signal. Input signals may vary on model application. Integrated (ignition coil on distributor) and remote ignition coil designs are used depending on model.

On T100 2.7L, crankshaft position sensor delivers input signal at NE+ and NE- terminals of Engine Control Module (ECM) to indicate crankshaft position. See Fig 1. Camshaft position is determined by input signal delivered by pick-up coil in the distributor. The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses input signal for controlling ignition timing (spark advance). See Fig 1.

ECM uses pick-up coil input signals to switch primary ignition circuit on and off. Primary circuit is turned off when ECM delivers a signal to ignitor on the IGT wire, causing ignition coil to fire the spark plug. After delivering a command to turn off primary circuit on the IGT wire, the ECM monitors IGF circuit to ensure primary switching occurred. See Fig 1-6.

Fig 1: Electronic Ignition System Schematic (T100 2.7L)
G94H44401Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
Fig 2: Typical Ignition System Schematic (4-Cylinder)(Except T100 2.7L)
G94I44402Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
Fig 3: Typical Ignition System Schematic (V6)
G94J44403Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002