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.
Ignition System: Description
The Ducellier electronic ignition system used by Peugeot and Renault models consists of a Ducellier breakerless distributor, Delco-Remy ignition coil, amplifier module, ignition switch, and necessary wiring.
The distributor contains both centrifugal and vacuum advance mechanisms, a pick-up coil and a reluctor (polarity wheel). Refer to Fig 1. The ignition coil and amplifier module are mounted to a common light alloy base. The base provides both good grounding and cooling of the amplifier module.
Silicone grease, which comes with the module for application between the module and base, gives improved heat transfer. Since both units are grounded through the common base, all mounting bolts should be clean and tight.
The ignition coil is encased in epoxy resin instead of oil. The amplifier module receives, amplifies and sends electronic signals to provide proper spark timing.
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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.