Rotor Button
Rotor
Breaker Cam
Timing Adjustment
Automatic Weights
Advance Lever
Fig. 99. Delco Ignition Distributor
The automatic feature of this distributor is shown in [Figs. 99] and [100]. With the spark lever set at the running position on the steering wheel (which is nearly all the way down on the quadrant), the automatic feature gives the proper spark for all speeds excepting a wide open throttle at low speeds, at which time the spark lever should be slightly retarded. When the ignition is too far advanced it causes loss of power and a knocking sound within the engine. With too late a spark there is a loss of power which is usually not noticed except by an experienced driver or one very familiar with the car and heating of the engine and excessive consumption of fuel is the result.
The timer contacts shown at D and C ([Fig. 100]) are two of the most important points of an automobile. Very little attention will keep these in perfect condition. These are tungsten metal, which is extremely hard and requires a very high temperature to melt. Under normal conditions they wear or burn very slightly and will very seldom require attention; but in the event of abnormal voltage, such as would be obtained by running with the battery removed, or with the ignition resistance unit shorted out, or with a defective condenser, these contacts burn very rapidly and in a short time will cause serious ignition trouble. The car should never be operated with the battery removed.
3 AUTOMATIC
WEIGHTS
DISTRIBUTOR
CONTACT BREAKER
CAM
Fig. 100. Delco Ignition Contact Breaker and Timer
It is a very easy matter to check the resistance unit by observing its heating when the ignition button is out and the contacts in the distributor are closed. If it is shorted out it will not heat up, and will cause missing at low speeds.