Model engine ignition systems

[Kelly Tytlandsvik]

Hi Guys

Carburators are being discussed in another thread. So I thought I would start another on ignition systems.

Last year at the Estevan Model Engineering show a fellow brought a model of Gade. He made his ingition points so that both the stationary and movable points of the ignition system were completely insulated from the engine. Thus eliminating trying to ground the coil through a insulated brush to the cam gear and then through a OIL FILM. Which alot of us do! With both points insulated two wires are run to the points one from the coil and the other back to the ground of the battery.

I think many of us could improve engine performance by going to a point system such as I have discribed. (tried to) It only takes one missfire for a small engine to die completely. We all know how an engine runs with oily points. Trying to ground through the oil film on the cam gear is the same thing!

I am attaching a photo of the point insulators. The contacts themselves are behind the engine frame and are pushed closed by the pin in the cam gear.



Kelly T

[Kelly Tytlandsvik]

Of course those of you who don't want to mess with points at all, can install electronic ignition. Using a ciruit board and a Hall effect switch to replace the points. I have seen a few for sale but I have a friend that makes his own and says it is not that hard. Do any of you guys have a circuit diagram or any information on making your own electronic boards?

Kelly T

[Steve.Collier2]

Kelly, try this

http://perower.tripod.com/index.html

the hall effect sensor is obselete, but Allegro microsystems 115 northeast cutoff worcester MA 01606 should be able to advise on an equivalent. I have ordered some A3213 devices and will be giving these a try ( once the kitchen extension is finished)

HTH

Steve