Ignition System - Desert Aircraft DA200 Owner's Manual

Ignition System

• The DA200 uses two, 2 cylinder ignition units. One for the 2 rear cylinders, and one for the 2 front
cylinders.
• The ignition unit for the front cylinders plugs into the red timing sensor on the opposite side of the
carburetors (This is normally the top side of the engine, with the carbs orientated on the bottom)
• The ignition for the rear cylinders plugs into the red timing sensor on the same side as the carbs.
(Normally the bottom/carb side of the engine)
• One ignition switch can be used with a "Y" harness for power to both ignition units from one battery.
• For redundancy, separate batteries and switches can be used.
• The ignitions can be powered directly by 4 or 5 cell 4.8 or 6 volt NiCad/NiMH batteries, or 6.6 volt
A123/LiFe batteries. If using batteries rated at more than 6.6 volts, a 5.5 or 6 volt regulator must be
used. Higher voltage will damage the ignition system and will void the warranty.
• We recommend 1,800 mAh or larger capacity packs if using 2 batteries, or a 3,600 mAh or larger
pack if using a single battery. Battery duration will vary depending on the rpm of the engine. If a
meter test shows a low state of charge, don't fly, re-charge.
• When making electrical connections to the ignition system, use the same gauge wire (or larger) as
used on the red and black power leads on the ignition module, all the way to the battery pack. Keep
wire length to a minimum. Heavy-duty plugs, as supplied on the ignition, or as used on electric cars
and planes, are recommended.
• Use a high quality switch such as JR's heavy-duty switch. Small size R/C receiver switches are not
recommended.
• When charging, make sure the charge current does not reach the ignition module. In other words
don't "charge" the ignition module. Some switches automatically isolate the ignition.
• Keep ignition components and wiring separated, as much as possible, from your receiver, receiver
battery, servos, wiring, and switches. Don't use metal-to-metal linkages to operate the throttle.
• Always perform a radio range check before flying. Range with one section of the antenna extended
should be at least 80 to 100 Ft. with the plane on the ground and the motor running. If there are
"glitches", DON'T FLY! Check for holes in the braided shielding, loose connections, etc.
• When connecting the red pick-up sensors to the ignition modules, make sure that the polarity
of the wires entering the connectors is correct (Brown to brown, orange to orange)
• Unlike some ignitions, the Desert Aircraft ignition is designed to spark only when the prop is flipped
at a high speed. If the prop is not turned over at "starting" speed, the ignition will not produce a
spark. This helps to prevent the motor from firing accidentally. The ignition coils can store energy for
a short period of time after shut off. A few firm flips of the prop with the ignition off will expend any
energy held in the coils by firing for one revolution.
• When removing the spark plug caps, PULL STRAIGHT out on the caps. Do not pull on the shielded
ignition wires! If caps seem loose and are not making a solid metal to metal contact with the spark
plug base, use a small hose clamp around the base of the cap to keep them firmly attached to the
base of the plug. To prevent radio interference, the spark plug caps must have the split retainer ring
around the base to insure a tight fit. – DON'T FLY WITHOUT THEM!
• Protect the shielded plug wires from rubbing against fiberglass or sharp edges of wood or
metal. Rubber grommets and plastic "spiral wrap" insulation from automotive or electronic supply
stores work well. Holes in the braided shielding can emit R/F noise or loose connections (spark plug
caps, connectors and switches).
• Timing is set at the factory and should not need adjustment. Contact Desert Aircraft if you have any
questions regarding timing.
• Only use NGK CM-6 spark plugs. Other plugs may not fit the plug caps firmly.
• Plug gap is .022" (.55 mm) for the front plugs and .015" (.38mm) for the rear plugs
• Never operate the ignitions without a spark plug in the plug caps! This can permanently damage the
ignition coils.
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