When it comes to the ignition system of your car, the breaker point ignition system is one of the oldest and most reliable options available. However, understanding the wiring diagram for this system can be a bit of a challenge. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the breaker point ignition wiring diagram and help you understand every aspect of it.
What is a Breaker Point Ignition System?
A breaker point ignition system is an older type of ignition system that was used on cars before the advent of electronic ignition systems. This system uses a set of breaker points to open and close the ignition circuit, which in turn generates a spark in the spark plugs.
The basic components of a breaker point ignition system include a battery, an ignition coil, a distributor, spark plugs, and the breaker points themselves.
How Does a Breaker Point Ignition System Work?
The breaker points in a breaker point ignition system are basically two metal contacts that open and close as the engine rotates. When the points are closed, the ignition circuit is complete and current flows from the battery to the ignition coil.
As the engine continues to rotate, the cam on the distributor shaft opens and closes the contacts in the distributor. This distributes the high voltage current from the ignition coil to the correct spark plug at the right time, which in turn generates a spark at the spark plug.
When the points open, the magnetic field collapses around the ignition coil, which generates a high voltage spark at the spark plug.
Advantages of a Breaker Point Ignition System
While breaker point ignition systems are older technology, they still have some advantages over modern electronic ignition systems. For example, they are very reliable and easy to diagnose and repair. Additionally, they are not sensitive to voltage drops in the electrical system, which can be a problem with electronic ignition systems.
Another advantage of a breaker point ignition system is that they are very simple and easy to understand. This makes them a great option for older vehicles and classic cars where simplicity is valued over the latest technology.
The Breaker Point Ignition Wiring Diagram
The wiring diagram of a breaker point ignition system is relatively simple compared to modern electronic ignition systems. However, it is still important to understand all of the components and how they are connected in order to properly diagnose and repair any issues that may arise.
The Battery
The battery is the primary power source for the ignition system. It provides the voltage necessary to power the ignition coil and generate a spark at the spark plug. The positive (+) terminal of the battery is connected to the ignition switch, which is used to turn the ignition system on and off.
The Ignition Coil
The ignition coil is the component responsible for generating the high voltage necessary to produce a spark at the spark plug. The ignition coil is made up of two coils of wire wrapped around an iron core. When current flows through the primary coil, it generates a magnetic field around the iron core. When the breaker points open, the magnetic field collapses around the secondary coil, which generates a high voltage spark at the spark plug.
The ignition coil is typically connected to the points and the distributor using wires that are color-coded for easy identification.
The Distributor
The distributor is responsible for distributing the high voltage current from the ignition coil to the correct spark plug at the right time. The distributor consists of a rotor and a cap. The rotor rotates inside the cap and makes contact with the contacts for each spark plug.
The distributor is typically connected to the ignition coil using a wire that is color-coded for easy identification.
The Breaker Points
The breaker points are the component that open and close to complete the ignition circuit. They consist of two metal contacts that are opened and closed by a cam on the distributor shaft. When the points are closed, current flows from the battery to the ignition coil, which generates a magnetic field. When the points open, the magnetic field collapses around the secondary coil of the ignition coil, which generates a high voltage spark at the spark plug.
The breaker points are typically connected to the distributor and the ignition coil using wires that are color-coded for easy identification.
The Spark Plugs
The spark plugs are the component that actually generates the spark that ignites the fuel/air mixture in the engine. The spark plugs are connected to the distributor cap via wires that are color-coded for easy identification.
The Ignition Switch
The ignition switch is the component that turns the ignition system on and off. It is typically connected to the positive (+) terminal of the battery using a wire that is color-coded for easy identification.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How do I know if my breaker points need to be replaced?
You can tell if your breaker points are worn by checking the gap between the points using a feeler gauge. If the gap is too wide or too narrow, the points may need to be adjusted or replaced. Additionally, if you are experiencing issues with engine performance or misfiring, this may be a sign that your breaker points need to be replaced.
2. How often do I need to replace my breaker points?
The frequency of needing to replace your breaker points will depend on a number of factors, including how often the car is driven and how well it is maintained. As a general rule, you should check your breaker points at least once a year and replace them as needed.
3. Can I upgrade my breaker point ignition system to an electronic ignition system?
Yes, it is possible to upgrade a breaker point ignition system to an electronic ignition system. However, this will require some rewiring and modifications to the distributor and ignition coil. If you are considering this upgrade, it is recommended that you seek the advice of a professional mechanic or automotive electrician.
4. Can I still buy replacement parts for a breaker point ignition system?
Yes, replacement parts for breaker point ignition systems are still widely available. You can purchase these parts from most auto parts stores or online retailers. Some common replacement parts include breaker points, ignition coils, and distributors.
5. What are the advantages of upgrading to an electronic ignition system?
Upgrading to an electronic ignition system can offer a number of advantages, including improved reliability, increased fuel efficiency, and better engine performance. Additionally, electronic ignition systems are generally easier to diagnose and repair than breaker point ignition systems.
Conclusion
The breaker point ignition system may be an older technology, but it still has some advantages over modern electronic ignition systems. Understanding the wiring diagram for this system is an important step in properly diagnosing and repairing any issues that may arise. By following the information provided in this article, you should now have a good understanding of the breaker point ignition wiring diagram and how all of the components are connected.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Breaker Points | A set of metal contacts that open and close the ignition circuit in a breaker point ignition system |
| Ignition Coil | The component responsible for generating the high voltage necessary to produce a spark at the spark plug |
| Distributor | The component responsible for distributing the high voltage current from the ignition coil to the correct spark plug at the right time |
| Spark Plugs | The component that actually generates the spark that ignites the fuel/air mixture in the engine |
