What is the Ignition Timing Detection Method?

[LaColin]

There are several methods for detecting ignition timing, including the manual (experience) method, the stroboscopic (timing light) method, and the cylinder pressure method. Below is a detailed introduction to ignition timing: 1. Ignition timing varies with the octane number. Under static conditions, the optimal initial ignition advance angle is obtained, along with the optimal fixed position of the distributor housing. 2. When the centrifugal regulator and vacuum regulator are functioning normally, the engine's optimal ignition advance angle is often determined by the initial ignition advance angle. 3. Ignition timing refers to the moment when, at the end of the engine's compression stroke and as the piston reaches the top of its stroke, the ignition system provides a high-voltage spark to the spark plug to ignite the compressed air-fuel mixture in the cylinder for power generation. 4. To maximize ignition energy, ignition timing is generally advanced by a certain amount. The spark occurs just before the piston reaches top dead center (TDC), not exactly at TDC. This is called the ignition advance angle. 5. Principle of ignition timing light detection: When a cylinder fires, the signal from the sensor on the cylinder wire triggers the timing light to flash. The distance between the scale illuminated by the flash on the flywheel or pulley and the zero scale represents the ignition angle. If the flash is delayed until the fixed mark aligns with the zero scale, the change in resistance (or current) of the variable potentiometer in the delay circuit indicates the ignition angle. The greater the delay, the larger the ignition angle.