A Capacitor Discharge Ignition or CDI is an electronic ignition system that stores energy in a capacitor, then discharges to produce a spark at the right time. This type of ignition is commonly used in small two-stroke engines such as motorcycles, ATVs, and snowmobiles. A 6-pin DC CDI box is a CDI unit that has six wires coming out of it, and it is suitable for use with DC-powered engines. In this article, we will discuss the wiring diagram for a 6-pin DC CDI box in detail.
Pin Configuration of 6 Pin DC CDI Box
A 6-pin DC CDI box has six pins or wires coming out of it that are used for various connections. The pins and their functions are:
| Pin | Color | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Black/White | Ground |
| 2 | Red | Battery Positive |
| 3 | Green/White | Pulse Input |
| 4 | Yellow | Ignition Coil Positive |
| 5 | Blue/White | Kill Switch |
| 6 | Green | Ground |
Now let’s move on to the wiring diagram for a 6-pin DC CDI box.
Wiring Diagram for a 6-pin DC CDI Box
The wiring diagram for a 6-pin DC CDI box is given below:
The above diagram shows the complete wiring of a 6 pin DC CDI box. Let’s now discuss each connection in detail.
Pin 1: Ground (Black/White)
The first pin of a 6-pin DC CDI box is the ground pin. It is usually connected to the metal frame of the vehicle to provide a ground connection. Connect this pin to the vehicle’s ground wire using a suitable connector.
Pin 2: Battery Positive (Red)
The second pin of a 6-pin DC CDI box is the battery positive pin. It should be connected to the positive (+) terminal of the battery. This connection provides power to the CDI box.
Pin 3: Pulse Input (Green/White)
The third pin of a 6-pin DC CDI box is the pulse input pin. This pin receives a pulse signal from the engine’s stator or pickup coil. Connect this pin to the engine’s pulse signal wire using a suitable connector.
Pin 4: Ignition Coil Positive (Yellow)
The fourth pin of a 6-pin DC CDI box is the ignition coil positive pin. It should be connected to the positive (+) terminal of the ignition coil. This connection provides power to the ignition coil.
Pin 5: Kill Switch (Blue/White)
The fifth pin of a 6-pin DC CDI box is the kill switch pin. This pin is connected to the vehicle’s kill switch wire, which is used to turn off the engine. When the kill switch is activated, the CDI box stops sending a spark signal to the ignition coil.
Pin 6: Ground (Green)
The sixth pin of a 6-pin DC CDI box is also a ground pin. Connect this pin to the vehicle’s ground wire using a suitable connector.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: What is a CDI box?
A: A CDI box is an electronic ignition system that stores energy in a capacitor, then discharges to produce a spark at the right time. It is commonly used in small two-stroke engines.
Q: What is the difference between AC and DC CDI?
A: The main difference between AC and DC CDI is the type of power source they use. AC CDI uses alternating current, while DC CDI uses direct current. AC CDI is usually found in engines with a magneto ignition system, while DC CDI is usually found in engines with a battery-powered ignition system.
Q: How do I test a CDI box?
A: To test a CDI box, you will need a multimeter. Check the CDI box’s resistance, voltage output, and continuity using the multimeter. You can find more detailed instructions online or in your vehicle’s service manual.
Q: Can I use a DC CDI box with an AC engine?
A: No, you cannot use a DC CDI box with an AC engine. DC CDI is designed to work with a DC-powered ignition system, while AC engines have a magneto ignition system that generates AC current.
Q: How do I know if my CDI box is bad?
A: A bad CDI box can cause various issues such as no spark, weak spark, engine misfires, or stalling. If you are experiencing any of these issues, it’s possible that your CDI box is faulty. You can test the CDI box using a multimeter or replace it with a new one.
Q: How much does a CDI box cost?
A: The cost of a CDI box depends on the make and model of your vehicle. The price can range from $20 to $200 or more. It’s important to choose a high-quality CDI box that is compatible with your vehicle’s ignition system.
In conclusion, a 6-pin DC CDI box is an essential component of a DC-powered ignition system. By following the above wiring diagram and connecting the CDI box correctly, you can ensure that your engine gets the right spark at the right time. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your vehicle’s service manual or a qualified mechanic.
