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Evolution Engines Ignition System
The spark ignition included with your Evolution Gas engine is a modern generation electronic ignition.
It will provide excellent operation for a long time if used correctly. Here are some features that you should
be aware of.
1. Automatic processor controlled timing advance that makes starting the engine easy.
2. During normal operation the battery voltage will decrease. When the voltage reaches 4.4V, you
will begin to notice a reduction in engine rpm. This is an indication that you should land your model
as soon as practical
3. The electronic ignition system on the Evolution 26GT and the Evolution 35GT is designed to operate
on 4.8 volts. The ignition system is not designed to use a 6-volt battery source.
4. The electronic ignition incorporates an rpm read-back function that enables the user to see the
maximum rpm that the engine achieved in the just completed flight. This is easily accomplished
by using your optical tachometer to read the frequency that the ignition system LED is flashing
after landing. This can be useful when selecting correct size propellers to match the in-flight rpm
to the engine’s horsepower and torque curves. You will have to multiply the observed rpm on the
tachometer by the number of propeller blades that you are using.
The electronic ignition unit requires a 4.8-volt battery source separate from your model’s radio system.
A 600mAH battery will provide more than 1.5 hours of operation. The supplied battery connector is
compatible with the JR radio battery connector.
While installing the ignition unit in your model, be careful to have all parts that are connected to the unit
and the engine situated as far as practical from the radio receiver and radio antenna. The throttle servo
should be mounted a distance of 8–12 inches from the engine. The spark plug cable must not touch any
part of the model structure as vibration may damage the cable. If this is not practical, it will be necessary
to provide an insulation material for the cable. The ignition unit itself should be wrapped in foam rubber
to prevent engine vibration from damaging the electronics. All components must be protected from contact
with engine fuel.
Before flying your model you must perform an interference check. Turn the ignition switch off, receiver on,
transmitter on and with the transmitter antenna collapsed. Walk with the transmitter to the limit of the
operating range (antenna collapsed). Have a helper turn on the ignition switch, start the engine and then
check for a reduction in range with the engine running. There should be no interference. If there are any
glitches from your radio system, do not fly until the interference is resolved.
Installation of the Ignition Unit
