Ignition coils play a crucial role in the functioning of modern engines. They are responsible for transforming low voltage electricity from the battery into high voltage electricity required for spark plugs to ignite the fuel mixture and power the engine. The 2 pin ignition coil is one of the most common types of ignition coils used today. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on the 2 pin ignition coil wiring diagram, covering everything you need to know about how to install and wire it properly in your engine.
What is a 2 Pin Ignition Coil?
A 2 pin ignition coil is a type of ignition coil that has only two wires – a positive wire and a negative wire. It is typically used in engines with distributor-based ignition systems. The distributor takes electricity from the ignition coil and distributes it to the spark plugs in the correct firing order. The 2 pin ignition coil is also commonly used in small engines such as lawnmowers, chainsaws, and generators.
How Does a 2 Pin Ignition Coil Work?
The 2 pin ignition coil is a transformer that consists of two coils of wire – a primary coil and a secondary coil. The primary coil is connected to the battery’s positive terminal and is switched on and off by the distributor. When the primary coil is switched on, it creates a magnetic field that induces a high voltage current in the secondary coil. This current is then sent to the spark plugs to ignite the fuel mixture and power the engine.
The 2 pin ignition coil requires a high voltage to work efficiently. The voltage required is typically between 12 to 15 volts, and the current required is between 4 to 6 amps. If the voltage or current is too high or too low, the ignition coil may not work correctly, and the engine may misfire or not start at all.
2 Pin Ignition Coil Wiring Diagram
Wiring a 2 pin ignition coil is relatively easy, but it is essential to follow the correct wiring diagram to ensure that the ignition coil works properly. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to wire a 2 pin ignition coil:
| Wire Color | Description |
|---|---|
| Black/White | Positive Wire |
| Black | Negative Wire |
1. Locate the positive wire on the ignition coil. The positive wire is typically black/white in color and is connected to the primary coil.
2. Connect the positive wire to the battery’s positive terminal or to the ignition switch’s output (depending on your engine’s wiring). Use a wire connector or a crimping tool to connect the wire securely.
3. Locate the negative wire on the ignition coil. The negative wire is typically black in color and is connected to the secondary coil.
4. Connect the negative wire to the distributor’s negative terminal or to the engine’s ground. Use a wire connector or a crimping tool to connect the wire securely.
5. Double-check all the connections and make sure they are secure.
FAQs
1. How do I know if my 2 pin ignition coil is faulty?
If your engine is misfiring, not starting, or running poorly, it could be due to a faulty ignition coil. Here are some signs that your 2 pin ignition coil may be faulty:
- Difficulty starting the engine – this may indicate that the ignition coil is not sending enough voltage to the spark plugs.
- Misfiring – this may indicate that the ignition coil is not sending enough voltage to the spark plugs or that the wiring is faulty.
- Engine stalling – this may indicate that the ignition coil is failing and needs to be replaced.
- Poor fuel economy – this may indicate that the ignition coil is not working correctly, and the engine is not running efficiently.
2. How do I test my 2 pin ignition coil?
You can test your 2 pin ignition coil using a multimeter. Here’s how:
- Disconnect the ignition coil from the battery and the distributor.
- Set your multimeter to the ohms setting.
- Connect the multimeter leads to the positive and negative terminals of the ignition coil.
- If the multimeter reading is between 0.5 to 1.5 ohms, the ignition coil is working correctly.
- If the multimeter reading is outside this range, the ignition coil is faulty and needs to be replaced.
3. Can I replace a 2 pin ignition coil myself?
Yes, you can replace a 2 pin ignition coil yourself if you have some experience with engine wiring and electrical systems. However, if you are not confident in your ability to do so, it’s best to take your engine to a professional mechanic to have the ignition coil replaced.
4. Where can I buy a 2 pin ignition coil?
You can buy a 2 pin ignition coil from most auto parts stores or online retailers such as Amazon, eBay, or RockAuto. Make sure to buy a high-quality ignition coil from a reputable brand to ensure that it works correctly and lasts a long time.
5. How much does it cost to replace a 2 pin ignition coil?
The cost of replacing a 2 pin ignition coil can vary depending on your engine’s make and model and the brand of the ignition coil you choose. On average, the cost ranges from $50 to $200 for parts and labor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 2 pin ignition coil is an essential component of modern engines. It is relatively easy to install and wire, but it is crucial to follow the correct wiring diagram to ensure that it works correctly. If you are experiencing problems with your engine, it may be due to a faulty ignition coil. Be sure to test your ignition coil regularly and replace it as needed to keep your engine running smoothly.
