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Some of the ignition systems currently being developed for gasoline engines have widely different electrical discharge characteristics. By selecting certain of these systems and by modifying conventional systems, the authors undertook an evaluation of the effect of the electrical discharge characteristics of the ignition system on fuel economy in current passenger car engines. It was found that changes in the electrical discharge characteristics from the present conventional ignition system could not improve fuel economy. However, a change in spark plug gap projection was found to be beneficial in the several makes of engines tested. Spark plug temperature recordings of typical vehicles in actual service indicated substantial low power operation. Tests based on low power accelerations revealed considerable losses in fuel economy and performance due to malfunctioning of the spark plugs which was undetected by the driver.

This survey of ignition systems and starting performance was conducted in 400 communities in the United States and Canada. Results showed poor maintenance by the average motorist. Over a third of all vehicles tested had ignition systems with low output and 60% needed spark plug service or replacement. Approximately one-fourth of all motorists reported hard starting. Only 60% intended to have a tune-up; only 40% actually had it. Tune-ups usually consisted only of spark plug servicing. This survey indicates rather conclusively the great need to make motorists aware of the value of periodic maintenance.

Until a more efficient, more economical, and more dependable automobile power plant has been proved, the hydrocarbon reciprocating engine will be with us. On this premise the author pursues possible improvements in present ignition systems and reviews what has been done in ignition systems and how spark plug design has accommodated to modern engine designs, from the compact car type to the high powered V-8. Significant in these developments is the approach toward stratified charge engines, a new concept of fuel ignition that offers impressive fuel economy.