08-6
3. IGNITION SYSTEM OPERATION
This ignition system does not use a conventional distributor and coil. It uses a crankshaft position
sensor input to the Engine Control Module (ECM).
The ECM then determines Electronic Spark Timing (EST) and triggers the electronic ignition system
ignition coil.
This type of distributor less ignition system uses a "waste spark" method of spark distribution. Each
cylinder is paired with the cylinder that is opposite it (2.3L DOHC: 2 - 3 or 1 - 4, 3.2L DOHC: 1 - 6 or 2 -
5 or 3 - 4).
The spark occurs simultaneously in the cylinder coming up on the compression stroke and in the
cylinder coming up on the exhaust stroke.
The cylinder on the exhaust stroke requires very little of the available energy to fire the spark plug.
The remaining energy is available to the spark plug in the cylinder on the compression stroke. These
systems use the EST signal from the ECM to control the EST.
The ECM uses the following information: Engine load (mass air flow sensor, manifold air pressure
sensor).
Engine coolant temperature.
Intake air temperature.
Crankshaft position.
Engine speed (rpm).
1) Electronic Ignition System Ignition Coil
The Electronic Ignition (EI) system ignition coil is located on the cylinder head cover.
The double ended coils receive the signal for the ECM which controls the spark advance. Each
EI system ignition coil provides the high voltage to two spark plugs simultaneously;
3.2L DOHC
T1/1: cylinder 2 and 5
T1/2: cylinder 3 and 4
T1/3: cylinder 1 and 6
The EI system ignition coil is not serviceable and must be replaced as an assembly.
