ASE Ignition Systems

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of the ignition coil in a gasoline engine?

Accepted Answer

To step up battery voltage to fire spark plugs

Answer

To filter fuel impurities before combustion

Answer

To control valve timing mechanically

Answer

To regulate fuel injector pulse width

Question 2

Which type of ignition system eliminates the need for a distributor entirely?

Accepted Answer

Distributor-less ignition system (DIS)

Answer

Breaker point ignition

Answer

Electronic ignition with distributor

Answer

Mechanical advance ignition

Question 3

In a distributor-based ignition system, what mechanism advances spark timing as engine RPM increases?

Accepted Answer

Centrifugal flyweight advance

Answer

Vacuum advance diaphragm

Answer

EGR valve modulation

Answer

Throttle position sensor feedback

Question 4

What is the typical voltage range produced by the secondary ignition circuit?

Accepted Answer

20,000–45,000 volts

Answer

12–15 volts

Answer

100–500 volts

Answer

5,000–10,000 volts

Question 5

What instrument is used to read and set ignition timing on older distributor-equipped vehicles?

Accepted Answer

Timing light (stroboscope)

Answer

Digital multimeter

Answer

Vacuum gauge

Answer

Oscilloscope

Question 6

What information does the crankshaft position sensor primarily provide to the ignition system?

Accepted Answer

Engine RPM and piston position

Answer

Engine coolant temperature

Answer

Exhaust oxygen content

Answer

Fuel trim correction data

Question 7

What is the purpose of the spark plug gap?

Accepted Answer

To provide the correct arc distance for igniting the air-fuel mixture

Answer

To prevent fuel fouling of the electrode

Answer

To create resistance for current regulation

Answer

To cool the center electrode during combustion