Electronic Ignition System

The electronic ignition system consists of a distributor which utilizes a pick-up coil and reluctor to produce ignition pulses through the ignitor. Ignitor is also located within the distributor.

Power for ignition coil and ignitor is provided from fuse box 15-amp fuse (20-amp on Swift SOHC) which receives power when the ignition switch is in the ON position. Ground circuit for ignition coil is regulated by the ignitor. As the rotating reluctor passes pick-up coil pole piece, an alternating current is produced. The ignitor uses this alternating signal to determine when to ground and open primary ignition circuit.

When ignitor opens ground circuit for primary ignition, the magnetic field around ignition coil windings collapses, producing an induced high voltage surge which is used to fire spark plugs.