Ignition System - HITACHI Electronic: Operation

The reluctor turns with the distributor shaft. As reluctor passes the stator teeth, the interrupted magnetic field causes transistors inside the ignitor to be turned off and on.

This results in a magnetic field building and collapsing in the primary circuit of the ignition coil. The primary field collapse causes the voltage surge in the secondary circuit of the ignition coil.

The distributor uses vacuum and centrifugal advance mechanisms. The vacuum advance is controlled by a thermovalve in the vacuum line. See Fig 1.

NOTE: For further information on ignition timing controls, see IGNITION TIMING CONTROL SYSTEM article in the EMISSION sub-section of the ENGINE PERFORMANCE section.

Fig 1: Accord & Prelude (Carbureted) Vacuum Advance Schematics

Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

Fig 2: Accord Ignition Wiring Schematic

Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

Fig 3: Prelude Ignition Wiring Schematic

Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.