>I was told by an A&P years ago that either a magneto is working or it isn't - that you can't really tell if one is going bad until it stops working. Maybe one of you guys out there can help answer the question. Guys operating a single ignition system might like to know.
When a high time mag starts to go bad there is usually some warning like low rpm or a rough engine. If all the ad's are complied with it should be ok to use one mag. At least that my reasoning. I have been using one Bendix for years and have been keeping up on the maintenance. Try this link for some good information on magnetos. http://www.sacskyranch.com/aircraft_magneto_troubleshooting.htm. Some people around here badmouth magnetos, saying that they're unreliable, but just like anything ealse if you keep them in good condition they won't let you down. I like them because they aren't reliant on a battery and that saves a lot of weight. Especially a Slick mag since they are lighter than a Bendix. One alternative to a mag is to use a modified 05 distributor with two sets of points installed and two of the cam lobes ground off 90 deg. apart. With the distributor cap and rotor removed and two dual coils installed it can be a pretty good ignition system. But it's a lot heaver than a magneto. You'll need an alternator and a battery. I'm looking into this system for another engine I have. -Joe
