Understanding the Basics of Aircraft Magnetos

Learn how aircraft magnetos work and why they are essential for safe engine performance.

What Is an Aircraft Magneto?

An aircraft magneto is a self-contained ignition system that generates electricity to fire the spark plugs in piston-engine aircraft. Unlike automotive ignition systems, magnetos do not rely on external power, making them more reliable in flight.

✅ Key Function: It delivers timed, high-voltage sparks to the spark plugs to ignite the fuel-air mixture inside the engine cylinders.

⚙️ How Do Magnetos Work?

Magnetos operate using magnetic induction. Inside each unit, a rotating magnet spins past a coil to generate electrical energy. When timed correctly, this energy creates a spark at the precise moment needed for ignition.

🧩 Main Components:

• Rotating Magnet

• Coil

• Contact Breaker Points

• Capacitor

• Distributor

• Impulse Coupling (for starting)

  
  

🔍 Why Are Magnetos So Important?

• ✅ Independent from battery/alternator

• ✅ Essential for engine startup and continuous combustion

• ✅ Used in both Slick and Bendix-type magnetos

If a magneto fails or is misaligned, engine performance suffers — or worse, it might not run at all.

🧰 Maintenance and Inspections

To avoid in-flight issues, magnetos must be inspected regularly — especially during:

• 🔧 500-hour inspections

• 🔧 Annual inspections

• 🔧 Overhaul

🛩️ CrossFire Magneto: Your Trusted Magneto Experts

👉 Learn more on our services page: www.crossfiremagneto.com Cel: +1 (754)-272-1780 info@crossfiremagneto.com