Ignition System - LUCAS Electronic: Description

The Lucas Constant Energy Ignition System maintains energy stored in the ignition coils at a constant level, allowing the output voltage to remain constant over a wide range of engine speeds.

The system also provides for a variable dwell for more optimum performance. A long dwell is provided at high speeds for adequate energy storage in the coils. A dwell is provided at lower speeds for minimum power loss.

The power lost in both the coils and amplifier module is greatly reduced, compared to equivalent constant dwell systems.

The distributor has conventional centrifugal and vacuum advance systems, an anti-flash shield, rotor, reluctor, and pick-up coil. See Figure. The reluctor is a gear-shaped component with 12 teeth, one for each cylinder of the engine. It is mounted on the distributor shaft. 2 ignition coils are used. See Figure. Main coil is connected in parallel with the primary windings of auxiliary coil. The secondary circuit of auxiliary coil is not used and coil tower is sealed. Amplifier modules are not interchangeable between models.