One of the most frequently asked questions:   What are the advantage/disadvantage of running one magneto and one electronic ignition?  

Such "split systems" have been used for a variety of reasons.  

1. In the past their main purpose was to sidestep the need for backup batteries and/or backup alternators that are required when running (some) dual electronic systems.  Magnetos do not need outside power to operate.  (E-MAG solves this issue with a built-in alternator).
2. Some will install their first electronic ignition after one of their magnetos goes out.  They'll upgrade the second one the next time it needs service.  This spreads out the cost of their upgrade.  
3. Some operators simply prefer a gradual transition when moving into new technologies.  They'll upgrade to one electronic ignition this year.  And if it performs as expected, they'll upgrade the second one next year.
4. The "Good Mag Lament":   "I have two good (working) mags and don't want to waste that investment."   No problem. You can replace one magneto now (set it safely on the self).  When the mag on the craft needs service, swap it out with the one on the shelf.  When the second mag wears out, replace it with a second electronic ignition.  You'll get full value from your mags but you can start enjoying the benefits of electronic ignitions now.  Most operators see 70% of the improvements with the first unit they install. 

These are all rational (interim) transition strategies.  But split systems are not an optimal long-term operating condition. 

1. One of the objectives of electronic ignitions is to eliminate the mechanical complexity (points, cams, brushes, gears, distributor, etc) of old fashion magnetos.  Upgrading only one magneto addresses only half the problem. 
2. Aircraft engines are designed to operate with simultaneous firing of two spark plugs.  A split system means you are almost always operating on one ignition. The variable timing of an electronic ignition will only occasionally match the firing of a magneto.
3. Repeater systems (fairly new) seek to copy the firing angle of an electronic ignition, but then revert to magneto operation when/if needed. This approach:
   1. When operating in emergency mode (flying on a single magneto), engine performance (range and/or speed) will be substantially reduced compared to running on a single electronic ignition - a potential safety issue. 
   2. Plug gaps have to be maintained such that the magneto (alone) can fire.  Recommended magneto gaps are roughly half that of most electronic ignitions.
   3. Compromises the principal of two independent (no interconnect) ignitions.
   4. Does not reduce the inherent mechanical complexity of the magneto.  By adding the repeater, the system (as a whole) is more complex - not less.
   5. Requires mounting and wiring remote modules elsewhere in the compartment.
   6. Offers marginal savings as the installed expense of the repeater is not materially different from the cost of simply purchasing a second electronic ignition.

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E-MAG Ignitions (TM)

2014 Greg Street, Suite 112, Azle, Texas 76020 

Copyright 2006.  All products, features, and prices are subject to change without notice.