Batteries.—These need inspection and attention more frequently than any other part of the mechanism. It is often the case that a battery, particularly storage batteries, will show strong amperage, and suddenly give out entirely.
The Vibrator.—When such is the case it may be attributable to the contact point of the vibrator having too heavy an adjustment, and as a result, it will be less responsive, or be slow in its action. This causes corrosion of the contact points. In action the vibrator should give a high-pitched buzzing sound, which produces a hotter spark, and also preserves the life of the battery.
The Electrolyte.—The electrolyte in the storage battery may need refilling. The old liquid should be removed, the case thoroughly washed out with distilled water, and refilled, using about three quarters of the old liquid, and the residue soft fresh water.
Replace buckled or injured grids with new ones. If a plate has a considerable portion of the minim, or lead, broken or removed, it is always well to take it out and put in a new one as the grid in such a case has a reduced surface.
Contact Points.—Examine all contact points, and clear the air vents and terminals, and particularly note how the wires are arranged within the case, so they will not be subjected to vibration and thus affect the terminals.
The utmost care should be exercised to line up the valves so they act at the proper time in the revolution of the crank shaft. Usually the inlet valve plunger has a lock-nut adjustment, so that it may be set at the proper point.
The points are indicated on the fly wheel and engine base, and when they coincide with, say cylinder No. 1, which is usually taken as the guide, the contact must be made between the valve-stem and plunger. If you find that the contact takes place before the two points are opposite each other, the valves open too early.
The Magneto.—The only difference between the magneto and the battery system, as applied on cars, is in the method of obtaining the primary current. The magneto dispenses with the battery cells, the coil, the commutator, or contact breaker, which must be used with the battery, and the switching plug.
Instead of the foregoing elements however, the magneto requires a contact breaker, and a condenser. It is, therefore, much more simple to examine and keep in order, than a battery outfit. The magneto, owing to the fact that it always has within itself the means to generate a current, and does not deplete itself, is far preferable to a battery.
Owing to the high tension character of most magnetos, the spark is also much hotter, and for that reason the ignition is more positive.