A properly maintained ignition coil keeps your engine running at its best. It’s important to maintain the ignition coil for your engine’s health, and keeping it cool is essential.
Proper ignition coil cooling is essential for high-performance engines to prevent combustion and maintain optimal engine performance. This guide covers everything you need to know about cooling your ignition coils, including how to install heat shields, optimize the engine cooling system, use high-performance ignition coils, and improve aeration.
So, if you want to know how to maintain your ignition coil’s health and improve your car’s performance, keep reading!
Why does the Ignition Coil need to be cool?
An overheated ignition coil can create a hazardous situation, resulting in dangerous exhaust fumes and components that could be adversely affected. Ignition coils are used to initiate the spark needed for your engine to run efficiently, but when they become too hot, this spark is weakened or even extinguished completely.
This guide will provide you with methods on how to keep your ignition coil cool and functioning properly.
Ensure Proper Airflow Around The Ignition Coil
As we write about how to keep the ignition coil cool, we begin by focusing on the importance of proper airflow around it.
The ignition coil generates a lot of heat when in use, and without adequate airflow, this heat can become trapped, leading to overheating and possible damage.
To ensure proper airflow, make sure that the ignition coil is positioned in an area with enough space around it to allow air to circulate freely. Avoid placing objects or parts too close to the ignition coil that can restrict the flow of air.
Additionally, make sure that any surrounding components, such as spark plug wires or intake manifold, are positioned properly and do not block the airflow.
Regularly checking the air filter and replacing it when necessary is also crucial to maintain proper airflow around the ignition coil. A dirty air filter can impede the flow of air and cause the ignition coil to overheat.
If you notice that your engine is running hotter than usual, it could be a sign of restricted airflow. Be sure to inspect the ignition coil and surrounding components for any signs of overheating or damage.
Keep The Engine Compartment Clean To Prevent Debris Buildup
Keeping the engine compartment clean is essential for preventing the buildup of debris that can restrict airflow and cause the ignition coil to overheat.
Dirt, dust, and other debris can easily accumulate around the ignition coil, trapping heat and reducing airflow. To help prevent this issue, take time to regularly clean out your vehicle’s engine compartment using a soft-bristled brush and vacuum cleaner.
Also, make sure to check the air intake every so often, removing any buildup of debris that has managed to enter it. A little work now will ensure better performance from your vehicle in the future.
Taking some time to give your car some extra TLC can go a long way in terms of keeping your ignition coil running smoothly, so be sure to stay on top of any necessary maintenance tasks around the engine area.
Use A Heat-Resistant Coating On The Ignition Coil And Surrounding Components
In order to maintain your vehicle’s performance, it is important to keep the ignition coil cool. You can do this by coating the ignition coil and surrounding components with a heat-resistant coating. Coatings act as barriers, preventing heat from penetrating and trapping inside components.
The ballast resistors should have a resistance of 1.2 ohms. If it’s higher, that can cause problems and contribute to poor ignition performance. I’ve had mixed experiences with different types of coils, so do a little research before you choose one for your particular setup.
Additionally, when starting the vehicle without the start circuit, start times will be longer than usual, and you want to make sure that there’s 12V going to the positive side of the coil during this process.
A heat-resistant coating can significantly reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the ignition coil and surrounding components, helping to prevent overheating and possible damage.
Install A Heat Shield To Protect The Ignition Coil From Direct Heat
A heat shield is a barrier that’s placed between the ignition coil and the source of heat, such as the exhaust manifold or headers.
Heat shields are typically made of materials that can withstand high temperatures, such as aluminum or stainless steel. They come in various shapes and sizes, and some are designed to be adjustable to fit different engine configurations.
By installing a heat shield, you can help deflect heat away from the ignition coil, reducing the amount of heat absorbed and preventing potential damage from overheating.
However, it’s essential to ensure that the heat shield is properly installed and does not impede airflow around the ignition coil.
Regularly Check The Ignition Coil For Signs Of Overheating Or Damage
Finally, you should regularly check your ignition coil. Signs of overheating may include discoloration, cracking, or melting of the ignition coil or surrounding components.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to the ignition coil or surrounding components. Overheating can cause the coil to fail, resulting in poor engine performance or even engine failure.
Regularly checking the ignition coil for signs of damage can also help identify any potential issues before they become serious.
If you notice any unusual behavior or sounds coming from your engine, it’s best to have it inspected by a professional mechanic to diagnose and address any issues.
Final Note
By following these tips for maintaining the health of your ignition coil, you can ensure that your high-performance engine runs smoothly and stays cool.
Proper airflow, heat-resistant coatings, and heat shields all help prevent the coil from getting too hot and protect it from wear and tear.
Don’t overlook the importance of regularly checking your ignition coil for signs of damage, as catching issues early can save you time, money, and potential headaches down the road.
