Ignition Book

[cburian at uiuc.edu]

Bruce writes:

> Dr. Jacobs is also a master in marketing.  I know of 4 instances where
> his so-called "computer" ignition was dyno-ed, and there was no gain
> over stock ignitions.  I saw one of their computers after it was
> un-potted, and it is nothing more than a CD ignition system. 
> No computer (maybe an analog feedback circuit).  

No ignition will do better than a stock one properly tuned with brand new
parts being tested on a dyno.  It's the ability to fire under less than
ideal conditions where the different designs make a difference.  I've 
tested (with a friend who drag races semi-pro) dual point vs. GM HEI vs.
MSD 6 and found no repeatable significant difference in qtr. mile times
or trap speeds.  But, undoubtedly, one is going to stand out against the
others starting though fouled plugs at 10 below zero.  (Prob. the capacitive
discharge because it will put out full coil power down to 6V or so 
battery voltage, plus CD is best at firing fouled plugs).

BTW, Dr. Jacobs book is good, IMO.  I got it free by filling out a reader
service card in Hot Rod (this was about 8 years ago).

Chris