Contact breaker

A contact breaker is a critical component in an ignition system, responsible for breaking and making electrical contacts to generate a spark in an internal combustion engine. Here's a detailed explanation:

What is a contact breaker?

A contact breaker is a mechanical or electronic device that opens and closes electrical contacts to create a spark in an ignition system. It is typically located in the distributor cap or ignition coil of a vehicle's engine.

How does it work?

The contact breaker is responsible for breaking the electrical circuit between the ignition coil and the spark plug at the correct moment, allowing a spark to occur. Here's the process:

  1. The ignition coil generates a high-voltage electrical current.
  2. The contact breaker opens the electrical circuit, breaking the connection between the ignition coil and the spark plug.
  3. The spark plug is disconnected from the ignition coil, allowing the spark to dissipate.
  4. The contact breaker then closes the electrical circuit, reconnecting the spark plug to the ignition coil.
  5. The spark plug receives the high-voltage electrical current from the ignition coil, creating a spark.

Types of contact breakers

There are two main types of contact breakers:

  1. Mechanical contact breaker: This type uses a physical mechanism to open and close the electrical contacts. It is typically found in older vehicles and is prone to wear and tear.
  2. Electronic contact breaker: This type uses electronic components to control the opening and closing of the electrical contacts. It is more common in modern vehicles and is more reliable and durable.

Common issues with contact breakers

Contact breakers can malfunction due to various reasons, including:

  1. Wear and tear: Mechanical contact breakers can wear out over time, causing inconsistent spark timing.
  2. Carbon buildup: Carbon deposits on the contact points can prevent proper contact, leading to poor engine performance.
  3. Faulty ignition coil: A faulty ignition coil can prevent the contact breaker from functioning correctly.
  4. Incorrect timing: If the contact breaker is not timed correctly, it can cause poor engine performance or misfires.

Conclusion

In summary, a contact breaker is a critical component in an ignition system, responsible for breaking and making electrical contacts to generate a spark in an internal combustion engine. Understanding how it works and the types of contact breakers available can help diagnose and repair issues with your vehicle's ignition system.