MEC2060 Ignition Systems

Intermediate · 1 credit · TMT - Trades, Manufacturing and Transportation

Description: Students identify the basic components and parts of ignition systems used on internal combustion engines, and service and repair an ignition system.
Prerequisite: None
Parameters: Access to a multimeter, a timing light, hand tools and related resources.
Supporting courses: MEC1040: Engine Fundamentals MEC1090: Electrical Fundamentals

Outcomes The student will:

1 follow electrical safety guidelines by accurately interpreting and using instruction manuals
- 1.1 demonstrate knowledge of and follow laboratory safety procedures
- 1.2 describe hazards involved when working with high voltages and currents
2 explain how a timed high voltage spark is achieved in magneto, point and electronic ignition systems
- 2.1 list and describe the three common types of ignition systems
- 2.2 name the parts of the following ignition systems:
  - 2.2.1 magneto
  - 2.2.2 point type
  - 2.2.3 electronic
  - 2.2.4 computer-coil (distributorless)
3 recognize the drivability symptoms and use visual and instrument checks to diagnose ignition system faults
- 3.1 identify and describe symptoms produced by a typical ignition failure including:
  - 3.1.1 loose connection(s)
  - 3.1.2 faulty spark plug(s)
  - 3.1.3 faulty coil or wire
  - 3.1.4 bad distributor cap or rotor
  - 3.1.5 faulty points
  - 3.1.6 faulty pick-up coil
4 service and repair an ignition system
- 4.1 test the following:
  - 4.1.1 primary circuit voltage drop
  - 4.1.2 high tension lead resistance
  - 4.1.3 ignition coil
  - 4.1.4 ignition cap
  - 4.1.5 pick-up coil
  - 4.1.6 distributor points and condensor
  - 4.1.7 advance mechanisms
- 4.2 show how to remove and analyze a spark plug to determine how well the engine is operating; e.g., oil consumption, fuel/air ratio and service/repair, if required
- 4.3 lubricate distributor
- 4.4 clean and tighten electrical leads and connections
- 4.5 complete the following according to the manufacturer’s specifications:
  - 4.5.1 clean gap and/or replace with new spark plugs
  - 4.5.2 clean and/or replace with new contact points
  - 4.5.3 adjust contact points and pick-up coil gap
  - 4.5.4 adjust/repair advance mechanisms
  - 4.5.5 set ignition timing statically and check with a timing light
5 demonstrate basic competencies
- 5.1 demonstrate fundamental skills to:
  - 5.1.1 communicate
  - 5.1.2 manage information
  - 5.1.3 use numbers
  - 5.1.4 think and solve problems
- 5.2 demonstrate personal management skills to:
  - 5.2.1 demonstrate positive attitudes and behaviours
  - 5.2.2 be responsible
  - 5.2.3 be adaptable
  - 5.2.4 learn continuously
  - 5.2.5 work safely
- 5.3 demonstrate teamwork skills to:
  - 5.3.1 work with others
  - 5.3.2 participate in projects and tasks
6 identify possible life roles related to the skills and content of this cluster
- 6.1 recognize and then analyze the opportunities and barriers in the immediate environment
- 6.2 identify potential resources to minimize barriers and maximize opportunities