Functions of Ignition Apparatuses and Engine Systems

Types of Magnetos Used on IHC Tractors

The high tension rotary magneto with impulse starter furnished current for jump spark ignition on Titan 10-20 and International 15-30 tractors.

Testing for Spark

High tension magnetos may be tested for spark by removing cable and holding cable connection about 1/4" from end of binding post; or turning the flywheel, a spark will result if magneto is in good condition. A good fat spark should result at all times if impulse starter operates.

Ignition System of the Titan 10-20 Tractor

High Tension Rotary Magneto with Impulse Starter

The magneto is driven clockwise (looking at it from impulse starter end) from the shaft through a heavy coil spring and runs as a rotary type.

Impulse Starter

(see image 7 in the image gallery) For starting the engine, the armature of the magneto is prevented from rotating by the pawl B engaging the notch A when the lever C is released while the shaft revolves through a part of a revolution, increasing the tension in the coil spring.

When the point D strikes the lug on the side of the pawl B lifting it out of the notch A, the tension of the coil spring causes the armature to spring forward quickly and produces a spark.

This process is repeated until speed of shaft reaches such a point that the force of point D striking the pawl B throws it up far enough to permit the lever C to lock it.

Points to be Watched in Operation of High Tension Rotary Magneto with Impulse Starter (as used on Titan 10-20 and International 8-16 (four-cylinder) and 15-30 tractors) 

a. Align well with drive coupling and shaft.

b. Keep bracket and magneto tight on engine.

c. Time so impulse starter will trip when crank is about 3" past inner dead center of compression stroke.

d. Then adjust spark advance connection between armature control arm and advance lever so full retard and advance can be obtained.

e. Impulse starter should always hook up automatically when engine is about up to speed. If it does not, then spring controlling hook-up is too stiff and must be adjusted. Then again, if impulse starter hooks up too quickly or before engine is under way, spring is too weak and must be adjusted to act as stated above.

f. In starting trip impulse starter, put spark advance lever in retard position. This will prevent a kick back and reduce strains on engine that otherwise would occur with spark lever advanced. Engine speed is too slow at starting for advanced spark.

g.  Distributor brush must be on and in good contact on distributor segment at both early and late spark positions.

h. Movable breaker arm action must be free, and stationary breaker arm must be well insulated and tight in housing so that the proper action is obtained to secure a good spark. The gap between breaker points should always be 1/64" or not to exceed .016" to .018".