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ignition timing

#1

S

shinytopgeezer

In the small engine world of single cylinder and small twins of lawn maintenance types, do the newer engines have ignition advance/retard systems in them? Remembering older (non-computer) auto engines this was done using flyweights in the distributor and vacuum diaphragms. Then along came computers and sensors to accomplish the advance/retard in the ignition. With all the advances in electronics, do any of the small engines in our world have a variable ignition timing built in to them for easier starting and lower fuel consumption. Seems it should be a no-brainer. Anything in the aftermarket?:anyone:


#2

I

ILENGINE

The larger Kohler command engines, I think some of the new Briggs engines, and some of the high end chain saws (Stihl, Dolmar, Husqvarna) use electronic variable timing ignition modules.


#3

BAGGMAN's MOTOR SHOP

BAGGMAN's MOTOR SHOP

kohler 15-16 hp single cyl I have seen on Craftsman Riders that have a CDI box. If i am not mistaken retards ignition for easier starting and then advances. I have seen them without it too.


#4

M

motoman

the retard sounds useful, but don't know why much advance is necessay on ? 3200 rpm engines that rely on torque mainly


#5

I

ILENGINE

The spark advance allows the engine manufacturers to increase hp with the same size block as the lower hp engine. Example, Kohler has a 18,20,22 hp engines that used the same block. the difference between the 18 and 20 was a throttle butterfly stop that only allowed the throttle plate to open half way. The difference between the 20 amd 22 was the smart spark. spark advance module.


#6

S

shinytopgeezer

the retard sounds useful, but don't know why much advance is necessay on ? 3200 rpm engines that rely on torque mainly





Well in the hotrod-small block chevy world they start well with 4 to 6 degrees initial timing, but by 3000 rpm the "centrifical" advance is all in, usually around 34 to 36 degrees total, depending on the engine. I don't recall how much farther the vacuum advance would pull it at light throttle, but you could sure tell it at the gas pump if the vacuum was un-hooked!!!! I sure wouldn't want to yank the cord on a little engine with 30 degrees initial timing!!!!:rolleyes:


#7

impalass

impalass

In the small engine world of single cylinder and small twins of lawn maintenance types, do the newer engines have ignition advance/retard systems in them? Remembering older (non-computer) auto engines this was done using flyweights in the distributor and vacuum diaphragms. Then along came computers and sensors to accomplish the advance/retard in the ignition. With all the advances in electronics, do any of the small engines in our world have a variable ignition timing built in to them for easier starting and lower fuel consumption. Seems it should be a no-brainer. Anything in the aftermarket?:anyone:
Lawn boy uses a 2 stage coil on the older F engines.


#8

M

motoman

ILENG, thanks, the increase could not be much, 1-2HP?


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