Here are some quick answers to your questions. I hope I use the right terms. I only have practical knowledge of the system, so just tell me if I am unclear.
1 - Components One complete set of these electronic ignition consists of: - One tiny mechanical assembly (which I will call a finger). It is rigged to the crankshaft; its function is to give the timing, and it is spring loaded to cater for advance/retard variation at start-up; - Two tiny magnetic sensors (with two wires each); these are rigged to the engine block, with a bracket, and are placed around the crankshaft, (around the finger). They are horizontally opposed (180°). When the finger passes by, they trigger. - Two "relays" (with five wires each) The function of these is to open and close the power supply to the coils, when the magnetic sensors tell them to. - Two coils . Note that these coils have two spark plugs lead each. - Four spark plugs. I haven't opened the magnetic sensors housings, nor the relays housings. But considering that the magnetic housings are half the size of a matchbox and the relays the size of a matchbox, there can't be too many components in them. 3 - Crankshaft attachment The mechanical assembly is bolted to the crankshaft. The magnetic sensors are rigged to a plate, which is attached to the engine block through a bracket with long legs. 4 - Timing pickup I already answered that, but I should elaborate a little bit more. The solid rigging ensures precise timing. Once you are happy with the timing, you tighten the bolts, and the timing stays like that forever. Only at start-up, the advance is less, to prevent kick-back. Then the engine starts, and the centrifugal force makes the finger fight its spring, and it assumes correct timing position. Every half turn of the crankshaft, one of the two magnetic sensors closes the relay, and as a consequence, two spark plugs fire. One fires at the right timing (ignition), the other fires at the wrong timing (exhaust phase). So, only one serves a purpose, but the system is made more simple 6 - They come straight from.......; What make and model cycle Honda CB series, circa 1980 or so. I am not 100% sure. When I decided to expand the system, I took my parts to a bike junkyard, and asked them to give me the same ones. There were many look-alikes to choose from, because most Japanese 4-cylinder bikes of that time used the same set-up. Lastly I would ask if you have any pictures of this setup posted on a page anywhere. Sorry, I haven't got a Web site. Any volunteers, step forward. Serge Vidal
