Automotive mechanics are an essential component of the automotive industry. As an auto mechanic, you’ll be the go-to person when it comes to servicing all car-related parts and systems, from wheels, tires, hubs and bearings to hydraulic brake systems and more. With extensive knowledge of different types of vehicles, auto mechanics will find a dynamic career with many opportunities for growth.
At the Automotive Training Centre in Toronto, you will be introduced to and gain hands-on experience in the above-mentioned areas, as well as another essential area: operating and servicing ignition systems on a vehicle. Read on for a quick look at everything you need to know about servicing ignition systems once you become an auto mechanic!
1. Spark Plugs Are the Heart of the Internal Combustion Engine
The function of the spark plugs is to ignite the fuel and air mixture inside the cylinders at the right moment. As a result, the air and fuel combination ends up expanding and pushing the piston down the cylinder. This series of actions is what drives the internal combustion engine. At ATC Toronto, you’ll get an insight into these dynamics as you learn from our expert instructors with many years of experience in the field.
Through your auto mechanic training, you’ll learn first-hand how to diagnose and repair spark plugs on a variety of vehicles. Knowing the spark plug gap is also an important part of servicing ignition systems that an auto mechanic should know. The size of the gap is an essential factor in a car’s performance. The larger the gap between the centre and the electrodes on the side of the cylinder, the more voltage is needed to allow the spark plug to jump.
2. The Importance of Ignition Timing
The spark plug is also a critical component in ignition timing. Ignition timing refers to the exact moment in which the spark plugs ignite the air and fuel mixture that is inside each cylinder.
Ignition timing affects many aspects of an engine’s functionality, including its drivability, overall performance, and idle quality. A good point to consider is that ignition timing is controlled by an engine management system in newer car models. When you become an auto mechanic after graduating from ATC Toronto, you will familiarise yourself with these systems and develop the necessary experience to diagnose any issues or concerns related to ignition timing.
3. Your Auto Mechanic Training Will Help You Understand Coils in Ignition Systems
As you train to become an auto mechanic, you will get to understand the importance of coils in an ignition system. The spark plugs use coils to supply the high voltage needed to ignite the fuel and air in the combustion chamber. Coils are not repairable and will need to be replaced when faulty.
Some of the ignition systems that you will learn about as part of your auto mechanic training rely on single coils, which provide the high voltage needed to a distributor and can power a single spark plug or a pair. Some newer models have separate coils that are placed directly in the engine, right where the spark plugs are. Servicing different types of ignition systems is an important aspect of being an auto mechanic and after your auto mechanic training, you’ll be ready to get stuck in!
Interested in earning your auto mechanic certification?
Contact ATC Toronto to learn more about our programs.
