Smartcoils & other ignition questions

[clayb]

> Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001 22:51:04 -0600
> From: "Jurgen Hartwig" <jhartwig at midsouth.rr.com>
> Subject: Smartcoils & other ignition questions

I'm not exactly sure what you mean by "smartcoils". I'm familiar with a
setup for the GM V6 that has the module with three wasted spark coils
bolted directly on top of it. The latest LS-1 V8 has one coil per plug,
with the coil mounted directly at the spark plug. These are not wasted
spark, however, requiring eight coils and coil drivers.

I used 4 of the GM-style wasted spark coils, but I purchased them from
Jacobs, as they are lower impedance (.6 ohm) and generate more voltage
across the secondary than the GM units. Then, I drove them with a "dumb"
four channel CD box from Autronics, which has a user-selectable
390V/450V primary setting. 4 inputs, 4 outputs, the computer handles the
timing. It generates a very hot, accurate spark.

You can buy 4 channel CD boxes from MSD (I don't think they drive low
impedance coils well), Jacobs Electronics, and Autronics. I think Crane
may also make one, by now.

- Clay

> I recently purchased an aftermarket engine management setup.  I am now
> searching for the pieces to get it running.  I have gotten enough info
> regarding the sensors, and now am ironing out the ignition and triggering.
> 
> I had originally planned on using waste spark coils fired by separate
> ignition modules or igniters, rather.  I eventually realized I could not
> use the GM or Ford ignition modules, since I just need a dumb module or
> igniter (no crank or cam input).  I searched through the archives and
> found posts about the GM "Smartcoils," which have the igniter onboard with
> the single coils.  On top of that, they are relatively inexpensive.  Has
> anyone used them with aftermarket or any other custom setup?  The archives
> only went up to '99, and the coils were only introduced on '99- model year
> autos.
> 
> I searched Autozone's online catalog and found the '99 Camaro is one of
> the models using the single coils.  I suppose they are the Direct Ignition
> coils I am looking for.  $35.99.  I may check my junkyard and see if I can
> get a batch for cheap.
> 
> Barring use of the 'Smartcoil', which appears to be my best and cheapest
> option, I will just use a plain vanilla coilpack and separate ignition
> modules.  To those who have done this before, can you give me your
> thoughts and information?
> 
> Regards,
> Jay
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