Briggs and Stratton ignition coils are an important component of the engine’s ignition system. These coils convert the voltage from the battery into a high-voltage spark, which ignites the fuel and air mixture in the engine. If the ignition coil is not functioning properly, the engine may not start or could stall during operation. In this article, we will discuss the basics of ignition coil wiring diagrams for Briggs and Stratton engines.
How Does the Ignition Coil Work?
The ignition coil works by converting low voltage from the battery into high voltage that is needed to ignite the fuel and air mixture in the engine. There are two primary components of the ignition coil: the primary winding and the secondary winding.
The primary winding is made up of thick copper wire and is responsible for generating a magnetic field around the core of the ignition coil. The secondary winding is made up of thin copper wire and is wrapped around the primary winding.
When the engine’s ignition switch is turned on, voltage flows into the primary winding and creates a magnetic field. As the magnetic field builds, the voltage is increased in the secondary winding. This voltage is then sent to the spark plug, which creates a spark that ignites the fuel and air mixture in the engine.
Briggs and Stratton Ignition Coil Wiring Diagram
To understand the wiring diagram for Briggs and Stratton ignition coils, you first need to identify the type of ignition system your engine has. There are two types of systems: magnetron ignition and transistorized ignition.
Magnetron ignition systems are used on most Briggs and Stratton engines. They have a simple wiring configuration, with only two wires running to the ignition coil. The first wire is the kill wire, which is responsible for shutting the engine off. The second wire is the spark plug wire, which delivers the high voltage spark to the spark plug.
For magnetron ignition systems, the wiring diagram is as follows:
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Black | Kill wire |
| Red | Spark plug wire |
Transistorized ignition systems are used on some Briggs and Stratton engines. They have a more complex wiring configuration, with multiple wires running to the ignition coil.
For transistorized ignition systems, the wiring diagram is as follows:
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Black | Kill wire |
| Yellow | Charging circuit |
| Green | Ground wire |
| Red | Positive wire |
What Are the Common Problems with Ignition Coils?
Ignition coils are subject to wear and tear over time, and can eventually fail. Some common problems with ignition coils include:
- Cracks or breaks in the casing
- Carbon tracking on the coil
- Open or shorted windings
- Faulty connections
If you are experiencing problems with your Briggs and Stratton ignition coil, it is important to diagnose the issue and replace the coil as necessary. A faulty ignition coil can prevent the engine from starting or cause it to stall during operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my Briggs and Stratton ignition coil is bad?
A: If your engine is not starting or is stalling during operation, a faulty ignition coil could be the cause. You can test the ignition coil with a multimeter to see if it is functioning properly.
Q: Can I replace the ignition coil myself?
A: Yes, you can replace the ignition coil yourself if you have the necessary tools and knowledge. However, if you are not comfortable working on engines, it is recommended to take your engine to a professional for repair.
Q: How long do ignition coils last?
A: Ignition coils can last for several years, but their lifespan can be reduced by exposure to extreme temperatures or moisture. It is important to regularly inspect your engine’s ignition system and replace any worn or damaged components as needed.
