Republic of the Philippines

Department of Education
REGION I
SCHOOLS DIVISION OF LAOAG CITY

WHOLE BRAIN LEARNING SYSTEM

OUTCOME-BASED EDUCATION

10
TECHNICAL-VOCATIONAL EDUCATION

AUTOMOTIVE MECHANICS

LEARNING QUARTER 1

MODULE WEEK 8

1
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
 MODULE IN
AUTOMOTIVE MECHANICS

QUARTER I
WEEK 8
DAY 1-5
Gas Engine Tune-up
Development Team
Writer: Reginald A. Valencia
Editor: Emily C. Bumanglag
Reviewer: Romeo G. Uganiza Joseph C. Salvador
Lay-out Artist: Bryll B. Atienza
Management Team:
Vilma D. Eda Arnel S. Bandiola
Lourdes B. Arucan Juanito V. Labao
Marju R. Miguel

2
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
 What I Need to Know

This learning material was prepared to help you achieve the required competency,
in Tuning Up Gasoline Engine. This will be a source of information to acquire the
knowledge and skills in this trade at your own pace with minimum supervision or help
from your teacher.
Through the discussions, you are expected to attain the following:

1. Inspect/replace contact point.

2. Check/adjust dwell and ignition setting.

What I Know

PRE-TEST

Direction: Read each statement carefully. Choose the letter of the correct answer. Write
the chosen letter on a separate sheet of paper.

1. These can cause cross-firing EXCEPT:

A. fouled sparkplug B. wet distributor cap
C. defective high-tension wires D. improper routing of sparkplug cables

2. An instrument used to measure the dwell angle of an engine.

A. dwell angle meter B. dwell tester
C. tachometer D. multi tester

3. It is a part of primary circuit in the ignition system that converts low voltage into a
thousand of volts.
A. ignition coil B. contact point
C. sparkplug D. high tension wire

4. A mechanical switching device that opens and closes the flow of primary current.
A. ignition coil B. contact point
C. sparkplug D. high tension wire

3
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
5. It is an instrument used to set the ignition timing of an engine.
A. dwell angle meter B. timing light
C. tachometer D. multi tester

6. Upon inspection, spark plug has a layer of dry, fluffy black carbon deposits on its tip,
Technician A says the plug cannot be used again while Technician B says the plug
can be cleaned and serviced, then used. Who is correct?
A. technician A B. A and B
C. technician B D. neither A nor B

7. What is the type of switches used in electronic and computer-controlled ignition

systems?
A. transistor B. contact points
C. resistor D. toggle switch

8. What will happen when loose mounted control modules housing is attached?
A. destroys transistor B. prolongs the life span of parts
C. cools the circuit D. makes better performance

9. For what purpose is the silicon-grease used between control unit and its mounting?
A. helps conduct heat B. maintains the temperature
C. lubricates the module D. rises the temperature

10. What is the function of the capacitor connected in the ignition primary circuit?
A. prevents the contact point from arcing
B. controls the flow of current
C. resists the excessive current
D. allows one-way flow of current

4
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
LESSON
Inspect/Replace Contact Point
8
Check/Adjust Ignition Setting

What’s In

What electrical system is this?

________________________________________________________________

What is the function of this in an engine?

_______________________________________________________________

What will happen if this system fails to work?

_______________________________________________________________

5
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
 What’s New

PRIMARY CIRCUIT SWITCHES

Several different types of switching systems are used to control current flow in the
ignition’s primary circuit.

Breaker Points. Older vehicles may be equipped with breaker point switching
mechanism. To inspect the mechanism, remove the distributor cap and rotor.
Check the points and condenser to make sure they are securely fastened. Push the
breaker points open with the screw driver and check the condition of the contact surfaces.
Badly oxidized (blackened) or pitted should be replaced.

6
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
BREAKER-POINT INSPECTION POINTS

Control Module: Electronic- and computer-controlled ignitions used transistors as

switches. These transistors are contained inside a control module housing that can be
mounted to or in the distributor or remotely mounted on the vehicle’s fire wall or another
engine compartment surface. Control modules should be tightly mounted to clean
surfaces. A loose mounting can cause a heat build-up that can damage and destroy
transistors and other electronic components contained in the module. Some
manufacturers recommended the use of special heat-conductive silicone grease between
the control unit and its mounting. This helps conduct heat away from the module,
reducing the chance of heat-related failure. During the visual inspection, check all
electrical connections of the module. They must be clean and tight.

7
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
 What is It

FIXED DWELL

Older breaker points systems and some electronic ignition systems use a fixed dwell
period. In a fixed dwell system, the number of dwell degrees remains the same during all
engine speeds. So, if the engine has 30 degrees of dwell at idle, it should have 30
degrees of dwell at 2,000 rpm. This is not saying the actual amount of dwell time has
remained the same. A fixed dwell of 30 degrees at 2,000 rpm gives the ignition coil only
¼ the saturation time it has a 500 rpm. The oscilloscope should show that the number of
degrees or the percent of dwell remains the same as engine speed changes.

One exception to this rule is early Chrysler electronic ignition systems. These
systems are characterized by a very long, distinctive dwell zone trace. The dwell zone
begins just as the spark line ends. At higher engine speeds, the spark line increases
slightly, forcing dwell to begin later. The change in the dwell time is also slight, usually
less than 5 degrees. This change in dwell has no effect on ignition timing because timing
is controlled by switching off primary current. In these systems, the change takes place
by increasing the spark duration and delaying the primary circuit on the signal. Because
this dwell change is so slight and has no effect on timing. This Chrysler system is
commonly called a long fixed dwell system.

8
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
VARIABLE DWELL

Most electronic ignition systems have a variable dwell function built into their control
modules. In these systems, dwell changes significantly with the engine speed. At idle
and low rpm speeds, a short dwell provides enough time for complete ignition coil
saturation. The current on and current off signals appear very close to each other, usually
less than 20 degrees.

As engine speed increases, the control module lengthens the dwell time. This, of
course, increases the available time for coil saturation. Although not common, it is
possible for the variable dwell function of the control module to fail and still allow the
vehicle to run. If testing indicates a lack of variable dwell on a system equipped with it,
the control module must be replaced.

Two important precautions should be taken during all ignition system tests.
1. Turn the engine switch off before disconnecting any system wiring.
2. Do not touch any exposed connections while the engine is cranking or running.

STEPS IN SETTING THE SPECIFIC IGNITION TIMING OF AN ENGINE.

1. Start the engine and warm for five minutes or until it reaches its normal
operating temperature
2. Connect the timing light supply wire to the battery terminals( + and -)
3. Clip the timing light sensing unit to the number one high tension wire.
4. Loosen the bolts of the distributor assembly.
5. (Engine is running) Hold the timing light handle and point it to the reference
mark and moving timing mark of the crankshaft pulley.
6. Set the specified timing by turning the distributor in clockwise or
counterclockwise direction and tighten the bolts of the distributor assembly.
VISUAL INSPECTION

9
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
 All ignition system diagnosis should begin with a visual inspection. The system
should be checked for obvious problems.
• Disconnected, loose, or damage secondary cables
• Disconnected, loose, or dirty primary wiring
• Loose or damage distributor cap
• Damage distributor cap or rotor
• Worm or damaged primary system switching mechanism
• Improperly mounted electronic control unit

PROCEDURE IN REPLACING THE CONTACT POINT OF AN ENGINE

1. Remove ignition key from the switch
2. Set the number cylinder piston to top dead center and check for the timing
mark.
3. Remove the distributor cap from the distributor assembly Pull out the
distributor rotor upward.
4. Loosen the screws of the contact point then remove it from the assembly.
5. Prepare the new contact point and install it to the distributor assembly.
(sand the breaker points and apply grease to its rubbing block)
6. Set the initial gap of the contact ranging from 0.008-0.012 inch by a feeler
gauge.
7. Place the distributor cap and start the engine.

What’s More

DISTRIBUTOR SERVICE

All service procedures for a distributor depend on the manufacturer and design
of the distributor. Always follow the recommended procedures given in the service
manual. In most cases, removal of the distributor begins any repairs to the distributor.
Before removing the distributor, check the condition of the distributor’s bushing.
Do this by grasping the distributor shaft and moving it toward the outside of the
distributor. If any movement is detected, remove the distributor and check the
bushing on the bench.
Lightly clamp the distributor housing in a soft-jay vise. Clamp a dial indicator on
the top of the distributor housing. Position the plunger of the indicator so it rests on
the distributor shaft. When the shaft is pushed horizontally, observe the movement
of the shaft on the indicator. Compare this movement to the specifications given in
10
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
the manual. If the movement exceeds the allowed amount, the distributor bushings
and/or shaft are worn. Many manufacturers recommend complete distributor
replacement rather than bushing or shaft replacement.

To remove a typical distributor, begin by disconnecting the distributor wiring

connector and vacuum advance hoses. Then, remove the distributor cap and note
the position of the rotor. Remove the distributor hold-down bolt and clamp. Note the
position of the vacuum advance unit in relation to the engine. Then pull the distributor
from the engine. After the distributor has been removed, install a shop towel in the
distributor opening to keep foreign materials.

Timing Advance Mechanism

The hoses to the vacuum advance unit should be attached securely to the unit.
Disconnect hoses can cause poor fuel economy and performance, poor idle, and
installing.
Centrifugal advance mechanism can be checked for free motion. Move the rotor
on the distributor shaft clockwise and counter clockwise. The rotor should rotate in
one direction approximately ¼ inch then spring back. If not, the centrifugal advance
mechanism might be binding or rusty. A lubricant might be necessary on advance
mechanism pivots and rubbing surfaces after the mechanism is cleaned.
Electronically controlled advance mechanism eliminates centrifugal and vacuum
advance/retard mechanism within the distributor. However, all wiring connections to
and from the distributor and ignition module should be thoroughly inspected for
damage.

11
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
 What I Have Learned

Do what is asked/required . Write your answers o your paper.

1. Enumerate steps in replacing the contact point of an engine.
2. Give parts to be checked during visual inspection before starting major task in an
ignition system timing.

What I Can Do

Activity

A. List down the procedure in adjusting the ignition timing of a distributor type engine.
Write your answers on a separate sheet.

12
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
 Assessment
POST-TEST
Direction: Select the letter of the corect answer. Use a separate answer sheet.

1. Upon inspection, a spark plug has a layer of dry, fluffy black carbon deposits on its
tip. Technician A says the plug cannot be used again while
Technician B says the plug can be cleaned and serviced, then used. Who is
correct?
A. technician A B. A and B
C. technician B D. neither A nor B

2. What is the type of switches used in electronic and computer-controlled ignition

systems?
A. transistor B. contact points
C. resistor D. toggle switch

3. What happens when loose mounted control modules housing is attached?

A. destroys transistor. B. prolongs the life span of parts.
C. cools the circuit. D. makes better performance.

4. For what purpose is the silicon-grease used between control unit and its
mounting?
A. helps conduct heat. B. maintains the temperature.
C. lubricates the module. D. rises the temperature.

5. What is the function of the capacitor connected in the ignition primary circuit?
A. prevents the contact point from arcing.
B. controls the flow of current.
C. resists the excessive current.
D. allows one-way flow of current.

6. These can cause cross-firing EXCEPT:

A. fouled sparkplug B. wet distributor cap
C. defective high-tension wires D. improper routing of sparkplug cables

13
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
7. An instrument used to measure the dwell angle of an engine.
A. dwell angle meter B. dwell tester
C. tachometer D. multi tester

8. It is a part of primary circuit in the ignition system that converts low voltage into a
thousand of volts.
A. ignition coil B. contact point
C. sparkplug D. high tension wire

9. A mechanical switching device that opens and closes the flow of primary current.
A. ignition coil B. contact point
C. sparkplug D. high tension wire

10. It is an instrument used to set the ignition timing of an engine.

A. dwell angle meter B. timing light
C. tachometer D. multi tester

14
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
TVE Auto-Mechanics 10 Self-Learning Module Curriculum Guide WBLS-OBE
15
What I can do:
Ignition timing procedure:
1. Start the engine and warm for five minutes or until it reaches its normal operating temperature
2. Connect the timing light supply wire to the battery terminals (+ and -)
3. Clip the timing light sensing unit to the number one high tension wire.
4. Loosen the bolts of the distributor assembly.
5. (Engine is running) Hold the timing light handle and point it to the reference mark and moving
timing mark of the crankshaft pulley.
6. Set the specified timing by turning the distributor in clockwise or counterclockwise direction and
tighten the bolts of the distributor assembly.
What I have learned:
1. Steps
-Remove ignition key from the switch
-Set the number cylinder piston to top dead center and check for the
timing mark.
-Remove the distributor cap from the distributor assembly Assessment:
-Pull out the distributor rotor upward. 1. A
-Loosen the screws of the contact point then remove it from the 2. A
assembly. 3. A
-Prepare the new contact point and install it to the distributor 4. A
assembly. (sand the -2 points and apply grease to its rubbing block) 5. A
-Set the initial gap of the contact ranging from 0.008-0.012 inch by a 6. A
feeler gauge. 7. A
-Place the distributor cap and start the engine. 8. A
2. Parts to check 9. C
• Disconnected, loose, or damage secondary cables 10. C
• Disconnected, loose, or dirty primary wiring
• Loose or damage distributor cap
• Damage distributor cap or rotor
• Worm or damaged primary system switching mechanism
What I know:
• Improperly mounted electronic control unit 1. A
2. A
3. A
What is in: 4. C
1. Ignition system 5. C
2. It provides the high voltage current to ignite the fuel charge during 6. A
power event. 7. A
3. The engine does not start. 8. A
9. A
10. A
Answer Key
References

Erjavec, Jack and Robert Scharff. Automotive Technology, A System Approach. 2nd
Edition.

Crouse, W.H. and Anglin, D.L. Automotive Mechanics. 10th Ed.

Santos, G.N. and Lebron G.B. Chemistry.

Kowels, Don. Basic Automotive Service and Maintenance.

16
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10
 For inquiries or feedback, please write or call:

Department of Education – Schools Division of Laoag City

Curriculum Implementation Division
Brgy. 23 San Matias, Laoag City, 2900
Contact Number: (077)-771-3678
Email Address: laoag.city@deped.gov.ph

17
WBLS-OBE Curriculum Guide Self-Learning Module TVE Auto-Mechanics 10