The only time we really look at or think about the ignition system is when the aircraft engine fails to respond at the turn of the key. Today, let’s examine this little device that could make or break your day in the sky.

The aircraft ignition system is very simple and normally very reliable. It consists of a starter switch or "mag switch", wiring harness with leads, couple of magnetos, and the spark plugs. All these are interconnected.

To understand and care for your aircraft ignition system, we need to understand what exactly happens when the pilot turns the switch.

When the ignition is turned on:
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