why do we use cdi boxes?

 

Basically it is the ignition box. An electronic ignition. It decides when the spark should occur depending on what the engine rpm is at. It can also contain a rev limiter, so when the engine hits a certain rpm it retards the timing, or cuts the spark out.

This is not explained very well, but I think you get the jist of it.

Aftermarket boxes can be programmed with different curves, for different fuels, or conditions.

Older cars used to have a points type ignition, when the distributor shaft moved past a certain place, the points would open and close, sending the signal to spark. Again this is a crude explanation, but I think it serves the purpose.

Bat

 

ok, ok. do we need to use them though

 

yes

 

We could go back to using points...some of you younger members might not have ever had to mess with them so you don't know how great the CDI is

 

if we need them. then why did my friend rip all but 3 wires off his dirtbike? it still runs like it normally did. maybe better with all that weight gone! [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img]

 

RAPTORJAY, my 40's ferguson tractor has points, and I want to jump off a cliff everytime i think about them. Im a college student, so i am not old enough to have seen them put in new machines, but I have learned my history the hard way and also appreciate some of todays advancements.

 

My Honda 1972 ATC90 had them. Pain in the a$$. Always had to adjust them. Same thing with my '79 RX-7. I think electric ignition came and saved us all in 1980.