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Practical Standalone Tuning: Ignition Configuration and Testing
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Ignition Configuration and Testing
02.12
| 00:00 | As with the fuel system, the correct configuration for the ignition system is going to depend on your engine. |
| 00:06 | Options include direct spark, waste spark and distributor. |
| 00:10 | Since the M150 uses a fixed configuration for the Toyota FA20 ignition system, there's no adjustment here. |
| 00:18 | So we'll look at these settings on Motec's Hundred Series ECU Manager. |
| 00:22 | If we go to the ignition setup menu, we first have the ignition type which defines if the ignition output is a falling-edge trigger or rising-edge trigger. |
| 00:32 | Most ignition systems use a falling-edge trigger, but there are exceptions including Honda, Ford, and some MSD systems. |
| 00:41 | Getting this wrong can damage your coils. |
| 00:43 | So if you are unsure, check with your ECU manufacturer. |
| 00:47 | Next we have the number of coils which defines how the ECU will control the coils. |
| 00:52 | For example, if the number of coils is the same as the number of cylinders, they'll be fired in a direct spark configuration. |
| 01:00 | If one coil is used, this indicates a distributor ignition system. |
| 01:05 | Each ECU is different, but these two parameters are the most critical in setting up your ignition system. |
| 01:12 | We're now going to use the test mode to test the ignition system in the same way that we tested the fuel injectors. |
| 01:17 | This can be done by selecting each ignition output and confirming the coil is producing spark. |
| 01:23 | You can do this by physically removing the coil, and connecting it to a spark plug that is earthed to the engine block. |
| 01:30 | You can usually do this test though without removing the coils as they'll make a slight ticking noise with each spark. |
| 01:36 | Again we can confirm the coils are wired correctly by unplugging them. |
| 01:42 | If your engine has a distributor rather than a coil pack, you won't be able to test the ignition system properly without the engine running. |
| 01:49 | You can connect the coil lead to a spark plug though, and prove that it is generating spark. |
