Remove the breaker cap. Clean the points with a hard card stock soaked in solvent (never use emery cloth). Check point gap and re-lubricate the breaker cam follower felt pad with factory-approved magneto grease.
Old wax-paper condensers absorb moisture over 50 years. They short out internally.
This guide serves as a comprehensive manual for understanding, maintaining, and reviving these mechanical masterpieces. 1. Understanding the Scintilla Design scintilla magneto manual
If you’ve ever tried to start a pre-1960s chainsaw, outboard motor, or military generator, you’ve likely met a Scintilla magneto. Before the days of reliable batteries and CDI boxes, Scintilla (now a part of the Bosch empire) was the gold standard for high-voltage ignition. These units are legendary for their durability—but legendary also means old .
As the magnet reaches a specific position past neutral—known as the Efficiency Gap (E-gap) —the primary current reaches its maximum strength. Remove the breaker cap
: Consists of a rotating permanent magnet (rotor) spun by the engine crankshaft via gears. This rotor spins past pole shoes to induce an alternating current in the ignition coil.
This public link is valid for 7 days and shares a thread, including any personal information you added. This link or copies made by others cannot be deleted. If you share with third parties, their policies apply. Can’t copy the link right now. Try again later. Old wax-paper condensers absorb moisture over 50 years
Precise timing is critical to prevent engine kickback or poor performance.
: Use a non-magnetic feeler gauge. The standard gap for many Scintilla models is .012" to .015"
: Consists of the rotating magnet, the pole shoes, and the core of the coil. The Primary Circuit
Many Scintilla magnetos were sold under OEM brands. For example, a Clinton or Lauson engine manual will often include a Scintilla section. Always cross-reference part numbers.