The Distributor Rotor's Vital Function

For the engine to start, it must receive power from different sources in the car’s system. One of these sources is the ignition system which takes charge of the proper burning of the fuel mixture within the engine. Comprising the ignition system are several parts that work together including the distributor. 

The distributor is a vital part of the ignition system since its task is to direct the high voltage that comes from the ignition coil to the spark plugs. More importantly, this process has to be done in an accurate order. The distributor consists of components called the “distributor rotor” and the “distributor cap.” The distributor rotor, in particular, disseminates the high voltage to the towers of the distributor cap by rotating. The rotor is located at the upper end of the distributor shaft, and is linked to a plate with the use of two screws. To stay in place, the rotor is equipped with built-in locators that perfectly fit the holes.

The operation of the distributor rotor is facilitated by a centrifugal advance mechanism that sees to the rotation of the rotor around the camshaft. This device also has the ability to advance the spark timing, which allows the engine to run efficiently.

It is highly advised that car owners replace their distributors every 15, 000 miles or once in a few years. The firing end of the rotor, in particular, should always function properly and must be replaced once signs of wearing out are present. Any type of deterioration can cause resistance to high tension spark. Moreover, owners of older vehicle models should also consider regular rotor inspection since their car’s rotors are more prone to wearing out and damage. The best way to do rotor inspection, according to car experts, is at night. This is because properly functioning distributor rotors give off light while faulty ones fail to do so.