Under different engine operating conditions, the ability of a spark plug to ignite the air-fuel mixture is critical for maintaining engine performance. In practice, as long as the voltage across the spark plug electrodes reaches 10,000 to 20,000 volts and the electrode gap is maintained between 0.6 and 0.7 mm, the spark produced will be sufficient to ensure proper ignition under various conditions. To maintain high-quality sparks, several key steps should be followed.
First, the contact gap of the distributor points must be properly adjusted. The points are connected in series within the low-voltage circuit. When they close, the current should reach 3 to 5 amps. If the gap is too large, the contact time is shortened, preventing the current from stabilizing, which weakens the magnetic field and lowers the secondary voltage. On the other hand, if the gap is too small, excessive arcing occurs at the contacts, also reducing the secondary voltage. For homemade spark plugs, the optimal gap is typically 0.35 to 0.45 mm. Additionally, oxidation or erosion on the contact surfaces can increase resistance, while uneven or misaligned contacts, poor spring tension, or insufficient contact area can all reduce the low-voltage current.
Second, the capacitor must be in good condition. It is connected in parallel with the contact points to suppress the self-induced voltage that occurs when the contacts open. This helps the primary coil’s magnetic field collapse more quickly, allowing the secondary coil to generate a higher voltage. Without the capacitor, the self-induced voltage could cause arcing at the contact points, delaying the current interruption and reducing the secondary voltage. A properly sized capacitor absorbs most of this energy, minimizing contact wear and ensuring consistent spark performance. If the capacitor is too small, it may lead to contact damage due to excessive arcing.
Third, it's important to prevent high-voltage leakage. Besides the spark itself, the insulation of the distributor cap and high-voltage wires must remain intact. Carbon deposits on the spark plug can create a parallel resistance between the electrodes, causing the secondary voltage to drop before it can break down the gap. This can result in no spark being produced at all. Therefore, during maintenance, carbon buildup on the spark plugs should be carefully removed to maintain optimal ignition performance.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your engine receives reliable and strong sparks, leading to better performance, fuel efficiency, and longevity.
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