How to Convert a Magneto into a Distributor

[@cj7fun579]

That's a great Idea, especially when new magnetos parts aren't built to quality standards. There's to many failures with the new coils and condensers to depend on, if you have to use the machine day in and day out.

[@jonelsonster]

Interesting observation!

[@larrydavidson3402]

Most interesting, didn't realize that was possible.

[@jonelsonster]

I didn't either. But on one of my other magneto videos someone commented asking if it was possible, and it got me thinking. Turns out you can.

[@Comm0ut]

Very cool ignition theory demo but of couse a functional downgrade from a mag.

[@jonelsonster]

I was just happy I got it to work.

[@garrettvillwok3693]

Very interesting!

[@jonelsonster]

Glad you think so!

[@ralphthomason4971]

Should have left the impulse hooked up so your advance would have worked and yes I know it goes full advance after the impulse kicks out.

[@jonelsonster]

I don't think it would have done anything. The impulse on a magneto, like this, is only active on startup and only engages to spin the magnets on the rotor fast enough to produce a spark. So, it actually retards the spark. Leaving the dogs of the impulse installed would not have provided any spark advance at higher RPM, like what a more "modern" distributor does.

[@ralphthomason4971]

No,when the impulse dogs disengages the mag goes to full advance even at idle.

[@jonelsonster]

I think we may be speaking past each other. Either way, a magneto does not have any ignition advance. Ignition timing at idle is the same as at WOT.

[@nickhale1937]

Very cool, what about taking a magneto from an antique hand crank telephone. Can that be done to start an car engine. Project that I thought about. Instead of using a battery like today, why not a little hand crank magneto from your sterling wheel or somewhere on the console. I believe stromberg was a popular brand and there are tons of them on eBay.

[@jonelsonster]

Ha! I know absolutely nothing about hand crank telephones. I'll let someone else tackle that excitement.

[@Comm0ut]

Those don't suit required RPM and load. OTOH a kick stater (hand cranking cars was silly when legs are vastly stronger and can use large lever arms) would be surprisingly easy to do if there was a pragmatic reason to make one. The extremely simply Maytag style is the most robust and could be fitted with an overrunning clutch.