MAGNETO IGNITION SYSTEM:

The magneto type ignition system is used on most reciprocating aircraft engines.

Magnetos are engine driven self-contained units supplying electrical current without using an external
source of current.

However, before they can produce current the magnetos must be actuated as the engine crankshaft is
rotated by some other means. To accomplish this, the aircraft battery furnishes electrical power to
operate a starter, which through a series of gears, rotates the engine crankshaft.

This in turn actuates the armature of the magneto to produce the sparks for ignition of the fuel in each
cylinder. After the engine starts, the starter system is disengaged, and the battery no longer contributes
to the actual operation of the engine.

The Magneto Ignition System is a unique kind of Ignition System which has its own source to generate
the necessary amount of energy for an automobile or a vehicle to work.

Modern airplane engines are required by to have a dual ignition system - that is, two separate magnetos
to supply the electric current to the two spark plugs contained in each cylinder. One magneto system
supplies the current to one set of plugs; the second magneto system supplies the current to the other
set of plugs. For that reason, the ignition switch has four positions:

OFF, L, R, and BOTH With the switch in the "L" or "R" position, only one magneto is supplying current
and only one set of spark plugs in each cylinder is firing. With the switch in the BOTH position, both
magnetos are supplying current and both spark plugs are firing. The main advantages of the dual ignition
system are:

1. Increased safety. In case one system fails, the engine may be operated on the other until a landing is
safely made. Consequently, it is extremely important for each magneto to be checked for proper
operation before takeoff. This should be done in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
Unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise, it is advisable to turn the ignition switch from the "BOTH"
position to the farthest "ON" position first, then back to "BOTH;" then to the nearest "ON" position and
back to "BOTH." This sequence best assures that the magneto switch will be returned to the "BOTH"
position for normal operation. Also, the performance of each ignition system will have been compared
with a "BOTH" performances.

2. More complete and even combustion of the mixture, and consequently improved engine
performance; i.e., the fuel mixture will be ignited on each side of the combustion chamber and burn
toward the centre.