When it comes to the ignition system of a vehicle, the ignition coil plays a crucial role in starting and running the engine. A 6-volt ignition coil is used in older vehicles that are not equipped with modern electronic ignition systems. In this article, we will discuss the wiring diagram of a 6 volt ignition coil and how it works.
What is an Ignition Coil?
An ignition coil is a type of transformer that converts low voltage from the battery into high voltage which is required to ignite the fuel mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber. In simple terms, it steps up the voltage to create a spark that ignites the fuel in the engine. The ignition coil has two windings – a primary winding and a secondary winding.
The primary winding is connected to the battery, and the secondary winding is connected to the spark plug. When the current flows through the primary winding, it creates a magnetic field. When this magnetic field collapses, it creates a high voltage in the secondary winding, which is then sent to the spark plug to ignite the fuel.
Wiring Diagram of a 6-Volt Ignition Coil
Before we discuss the wiring diagram of a 6-volt ignition coil, let’s first understand the components involved in the system:
- Battery – provides the low voltage needed to power the ignition system
- Distributor – distributes the high voltage from the ignition coil to the spark plugs in the correct firing order
- Ignition switch – controls the power supply to the ignition system
- Coil – transforms the low voltage from the battery into high voltage required to ignite the fuel mixture in the combustion chamber
- Spark plugs – creates a spark that ignites the fuel mixture in the combustion chamber
Now, let’s take a look at the wiring diagram of a 6-volt ignition coil:
| Component | Wire Color | Connection |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | Red | Connect to the ignition switch |
| Ignition switch | Black/Yellow | Connect to the coil’s positive terminal |
| Coil | Black/White | Connect to the distributor’s low tension terminal |
| Coil | Green/Red | Connect to the spark plug’s high tension wire |
| Distributor | Black | Connect to the coil’s negative terminal |
| Spark plug | N/A | Connect to the distributor in the correct firing order |
Battery
The battery is the power source for the ignition system. It provides the low voltage needed to power the system. The battery’s positive terminal should be connected to the ignition switch using a red wire.
Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is used to control the power supply to the ignition system. It is typically connected to the battery’s positive terminal using a red wire. The ignition switch’s black/yellow wire should be connected to the ignition coil’s positive terminal.
Coil
The ignition coil transforms the low voltage from the battery into high voltage required to ignite the fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. It has two terminals – a positive terminal and a negative terminal. The coil’s black/white wire should be connected to the distributor’s low tension terminal, and the coil’s green/red wire should be connected to the spark plug’s high tension wire. The coil’s negative terminal should be connected to the distributor using a black wire.
Distributor
The distributor is responsible for distributing the high voltage from the ignition coil to the spark plugs in the correct firing order. It has two terminals – a high tension terminal and a low tension terminal. The distributor’s black wire should be connected to the ignition coil’s negative terminal, and the distributor’s high tension terminal should be connected to the spark plug using a high tension wire.
Spark Plugs
The spark plugs create a spark that ignites the fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. They should be connected to the distributor in the correct firing order.
FAQs
What is a 6-volt ignition coil?
A 6-volt ignition coil is used in older vehicles that are not equipped with modern electronic ignition systems. It steps up the battery’s low voltage to create a spark that ignites the fuel in the engine’s combustion chamber.
What is the wiring diagram of a 6-volt ignition coil?
The wiring diagram of a 6-volt ignition coil consists of six components – battery, ignition switch, coil, distributor, spark plugs, and high tension wires. Each component is connected in a specific way to ensure that the ignition system functions properly.
What is the role of an ignition coil?
An ignition coil is responsible for transforming the low voltage from the battery into high voltage required to ignite the fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. It steps up the voltage to create a spark that ignites the fuel.
Can I use a 12-volt ignition coil in a 6-volt system?
No, a 12-volt ignition coil cannot be used in a 6-volt system. It is designed to operate with a 12-volt battery and will not function properly with a 6-volt battery.
What happens if the ignition coil fails?
If the ignition coil fails, the engine will not start or may stall while in operation. The vehicle may also experience poor performance and reduced fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 6 volt ignition coil wiring diagram is an essential component of the ignition system in older vehicles. It is responsible for transforming the low voltage from the battery into high voltage required to ignite the fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. By understanding the wiring diagram and the components involved, you can ensure that your ignition system functions properly and your vehicle operates smoothly.
