How to Control the Ignition Advance Angle?

[VanLeila]

Methods for controlling the ignition advance angle: The ignition advance angle can be adjusted using a vacuum gauge. During adjustment, it is necessary to refer to the data of the highest vacuum value of the car engine in the idle state. The fuel supply point can be aligned with the high-pressure pipe's fuel outlet according to the scale. The ignition advance angle is a parameter that affects the performance of the car engine during operation, representing the moment of ignition. Advanced ignition in a car refers to the spark plug firing before the piston reaches the compression top dead center, igniting the combustible mixture in the combustion chamber. The angle through which the crankshaft rotates from the moment of ignition to when the piston reaches the compression top dead center is called the ignition advance angle. An ignition advance angle that allows the car engine to achieve better power and fuel economy is considered a good ignition advance angle, making it a very important parameter for the car.

[LeSilas]

I remember that the control of ignition timing advance angle is mainly handled by the engine control unit (ECU). It continuously reads a bunch of sensor signals, such as the crankshaft position sensor telling where the engine is rotating, the air flow sensor knowing how much air is being sucked in, and the coolant temperature sensor judging whether it's hot or not. Based on these inputs, the ECU calculates the optimal ignition timing to make the gasoline ignite at the best moment, which improves efficiency, saves fuel, and reduces emissions. If the sensor signals go haywire, such as inaccurate positioning, the ignition angle may advance or retard, affecting power output. Modern cars are fully automated, so you don't need to worry about it, but it's important to check whether the sensors are functioning properly during maintenance. Otherwise, issues like sluggish acceleration or black smoke may occur. Overall, this system is quite intelligent, making the car run smoothly and environmentally friendly.

[DeOmar]

As a daily driving experience, I feel that the adjustment of ignition timing directly affects the driving feel. Nowadays, cars mostly rely on ECU automatic control, and you usually don't notice it working, but if the acceleration response is quick and smooth, it means it's well-tuned. If the control is unstable, such as the spark being too early or late, the driving will feel noticeably sluggish or produce knocking sounds. Older cars, like those with manual distributors, required adjusting screws for optimization, but with modern cars' automatic optimization, you just need to focus on driving. For daily maintenance, check if any warning lights on the dashboard are on—if so, inspect the sensors. Taking a high-speed drive can optimize fuel efficiency, which is quite practical.

[LaLane]

Many ignition issues encountered during car repairs: The control relies on the ECU to calculate the optimal timing based on comprehensive sensor data such as the oxygen sensor and knock sensor. If there is a delay, check if the sensor wires are loose or dirty. Use an OBD diagnostic tool to read the values—if they are too high or too low, adjust the ECU settings. The distributor in manual systems was simpler but rougher. Common problems include rough idling or lack of power during acceleration, so timely repairs are necessary to avoid engine damage. Regular inspections can prevent such troubles.