Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
MOTORCRAFT Solid State Ignition System: Operation: Notes
The control unit and ignition coil are turned on whenever the ignition switch is in the "START" or "ON" position. When the engine begins turning the distributor shaft, the trigger wheel rotates with it. As each tooth passes the sensor, it interrupts the magnetic field around the sensor. This continual build-up and collapse of the magnetic field provides a signal to the control unit. The control unit receives this signal and turns the power to the ignition coil's primary circuit off and on as each tooth passes the sensor. The collapse of the magnetic field in the ignition coil primary circuit induces a high voltage surge in the secondary, causing current to flow from the coil to the distributor, rotor, cap and spark plug wires.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.