Checking the ignition spec of my S3

[gizzardio]

Hi

I have just acquired an UK (domestic) Esprit S3 N/A, 1983. According to the VIN and engine number I have a 912 engine and config type so I'm looking at Spec No.9 from the workshop manual. Only thing is, when looking to gap the spark plugs, it refers to 'High Energy' ignition system with a different gap if it's not this, i.e. a contact breaker.

I *think* I have a a Lumenition based on what I can determine but not 100% sure. The 'Constant Energy Lucas' ignition doesn't seem necessarily HIGH energy so I'm a little confused.

Is there an easy way to check this?

[BertBert]

What do you see with you take the distributor cap off?

[996Type]

Also worth a chat with PNM and LotusBits who might be able to guide you, a lot of development has taken place since these cars left the factory and regardless of what you have, they might be able to offer upgrades.

[gizzardio]

Hi

It turns out I have the Lumenition system based on the box and the 3 wires to the distribution, as opposed to 2 which would be the constant energy type.

Based on this, I take it the definition of 'Contact Breaker' or 'High Energy' for the spark plug gaps means mine would be 0.6mm as per the below? It's just a bit confusing as it's using inconsistent terms for the plug gaps compared the the specs

[BertBert]

It doesn't look very confusing. I think you are right it's 0.9.

[dontlookdown]

BertBert said:

It doesn't look very confusing. I think you are right it's 0.9.

Another vote for 0.6mm/23 thou (which is what I think Bert means - obvs a bit more confusing than it appears...).

If you ever have to gap plugs without a spec, 25 thou usually does ok for most old school coil-based systems. Many plugs come pre-gapped to that, although one should always check.

[gizzardio]

Hi yeah 0.6 seems correct. The confusion for me is that the gapping refers to high energy or contact breakers which I think is is tricky to define. I assumed contact breaker means points, which isn't the necessarily the same as the optical system . Also constant energy doesn't necessarily mean high energy as it could be constant low energy.

Thanks for input, very helpful

[BertBert]

No, I'm not saying that!

I am saying that "low energy" means a contact breaker and coil setup.
High energy is the other two - being electronic ignition and both ways of maximising the spark (energy) - Lumenition and Lucas constant energy (which I assume is the Lucas/AB14/Rallye setup).

The low energy (points and coil) can only jump a small gap 0.6mm and the other two can jump the bigger gap of 0.9mm

Although have said that, noone I know gaps plugs any more. They just put them is as standard out of the box!