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Evolution GX Engine Simple Start Ignition System
The spark ignition included with your Evolution gas engine is a modern generation electronic ignition. There are many useful functions built
into the microprocessor of this unit.
In addition to the basic ignition functions, the unit has a BATTERY-SAVER feature. After 90 seconds of inactivity it automatically switches
to an inactive state. In order to restart normal operation, it is necessary to turn the battery switch off and then back on. This function will
preserve battery life should the switch be left in the ON position during inactivity.
Installation of the GX Simple Start Ignition Unit
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. Secure the ignition unit to the airframe using the provided hardware. Install the bolts
through the three rubber grommets and tighten securely. The grommets help to dampen the ignition unit from vibration. DO NOT HARD
MOUNT. 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. All components must be protected from contact with engine fuel.
DESCrIPTION
The ICU-L ignition makes the selection of a pre-ignition
curve (“short” or “long” exhaust stroke) possible. You
can change the setting using the supplied programming
connector.
The setting is permanently stored in the memory of the
ignition even if the supply voltage is turned off. You do
not ne ou turn the ignition on again.
BASIC FEATUrES
-Two preprogrammed pre-ignition curves (“short,” which
is the default setting, and “long,” for tuned silencer)
-Sleep mode after 90 seconds of engine inactivity to
save battery power
-Ignition shuts off if the engine runs counterclockwise
Programming
Connector
LED
Ignition
LED
PROGRAMMING
programming connector
POWER
power connector
Package Contents
-ignition
-LED
-programming connector
-manual
Enabling or Disabling Battery Test
This ignition makes it possible to enable or disable the battery test. The battery test is very useful when Li-Po or Li-Ion batteries are used.
During the test, a series of flashes are generated and voltage is measured. When the battery passes the test, that means it will run for a
minimum of 10 minutes in flight.
Enabling or Disabling Battery Test, Continued
If you want to change the type of silencer, do the first two steps and then continue to PROGRAMMING SEQUENCE.
Otherwise, follow these steps:
BATTERY TEST ENABLED:
- close programming pins with
enclosed jumper
BATTERY TEST DISABLED:
- open programming pins
(remove jumper)
Starting Sequence
- Move propeller to put the piston at bottom dead center of its travel
- Keep your hands outside of the propeller radius to avoid serious
injury
- Hold the airplane and switch on ignition
- If battery test is enabled, the ignition starts battery test; during
this test, a series of sparks are generated for about 2 seconds
and LED is blinking
- If battery test is disabled, then LED blinks for about 2 seconds
- If LED turns off, you can fly; otherwise battery is low
FIrST STEP
- Screw on pickup on engine
- Attach the plastic protection to the high-voltage
cable
- Connect boot to plug
- Mount ground terminal on the high-voltage cable
bolt holding the engine to the motor mount
- Mount the ignition to the airplane
SECOND STEP
- Connect enclosed LED to the ignition (red or red/
black wire to left)
STArT
- Keep clear of the propeller
- Connect battery with the ignition box
- Battery test is disabled when jumper is removed and programming
pins are open (this is the default condition of the engine as
shipped from Evolution)
- Battery test is enabled when jumper is plugged and programming
pins are closed
- Enable or disable battery test when the ignition is off
Ignition System Warning
When using the GX electronic ignition, it is designed to fire the spark
plug for 1 second to check the condition of the battery prior to start-
ing the engine. If the engine is in the compression position (i.e., the
piston is above the exhaust port in either the up OR down part of the
stroke), any compressed fumes may ignite, causing the propeller to
turn and possibly the engine to start unintentionally.
To prevent injury with the Evolution Gasoline GX Ignition System, the
Ignition Power Switch must be turned off first; then check to see that
the piston is in the Bottom Dead Center (BDC) position. (Bottom Dead
Center can be found by rotating the propeller through the compression
stroke. As you rotate the propeller you will feel it tighten, then suddenly
loosen. Once the turn becomes very easy, you have completed the
compression stroke and are at BDC.) Once you are sure the piston is
in this position, you may turn on the ignition power switch and operate
the system safely.
As always, it is important to use extreme care when near or with
engines, fuel and propellers. Please use caution when working with
these components. If you have any questions or concerns, please con-
tact the Horizon Support Team at 1-877-504-0233 or productsupport@
horizonhobby.com.
WArNING
Use the ignition only in dry conditions
Use recommended number and type of cells for every ignition type
The product is specified for RC engines only (other use must be approved by the manufacturer)
Do not take off the plug cap if the ignition is on
Danger of electric injury (voltage over 20,000V)
Recharge ignition battery only outside the model
Because of possible interferences, ignition and battery should be placed at least 25 cm from the receiver
The manufacturer is not responsible for damages caused by not following the manual or by using the ignition for anything
other than RC engines. Guarantee is void if the high-voltage (HV) cable or HV isolation is damaged, the pickup or batteries
are reversed, or the ignition box is opened.