I'm in need to know of how many Volts/Amps the DuraSpark_II system
uses while running & during start-up.

Looking to make a "Battery-Only" ignition system.
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( Franklin2, I'll presume you'll have some input on this. It'll be welcome info.)
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I can't tell you the exact amperage usage unless you can find it on the internet. I am not sure what a "battery only" system is. The ignition box requires 12v to run, and 12v during starting only for the timing retard function to work. On top of that, the coil requires 12v during starting, and then a reduced voltage during run which is provided by the resistor wire in the harness, or a external resistor. I would size my wiring for 15 amps for both, 14 gauge wire. 16 would probably work but it doesn't hurt to go bigger.

 

The Duraspark itself won't draw much current. The ignition coil is the power eater here, and the coil used will change the current. Without enough information, I'd say to figure 5A for total ignition usage.

As a comparison, how many wheelbarrows of dirt do I need to fill this hole in my back yard?

 

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Basically what I meant by "battery-only" system
is a "bone-stock" ignition sys. that only has a battery to run it.
No Alt./Charging sys.
Just as simple as it can be, nothing else.

I don't have a multimeter that goes over 10-amps.

So it'd be great if someone else has that info.
Because I haven't been able to locate that info myself.
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Put your meter inline with the ignition coil and see what it says. I bet it's not over 10 amps. You can then check the ignition box also.

What are you making, a prepper type vehicle after the electromagnetic pulse hits?

 

Don't need one. Measure the ohms resistance of the primary ignition circuit. Divide that number by battery voltage and Bob's yer Uncle. Remember a coil isn't "On" all the time, maybe 2/3rds. So multiply by 0.66 for accuracy. But, as mentioned I bet it's well below 10 amps.

 

LOL!
Nope,
just tossing a bare-bones lightweight stock racing setup.
To see how far stock parts can be stretched without any heavy modding.

In this theoretical bench racing session on super stupid ultra light stock racing setup.
Someone suggested using a solar panel sized just right to run the ignition system, with a super-capacitor bank to smooth out low spots in voltage & to start the engine.

The other plausible idea was to use a LiFiPo4 battery in conjunction with the super-capacitor instead.

It's all in good fun.
& if it proves to work in theory.
We might even give it a go, just for the giggles & grins…

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*bump*

Anyone try getting the amperage.?
Been little busy as of late.

 

Jeeze Louise. Measure the ohms resistance in the primary. Do the math. Hell it ain't even math - it's arithmetic. As mentioned, it's not going to exceed ten amps anyway. Use your DVM.

 

Was seeing anyone else had the time yet.
I've only had enough time to check in see @ different times throughout.

Will see about trying when I've the time.
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I believe that method would give you worst case amperage draw. Using that method it might calculate out quite high. You need to calculate the inline resistor into the formula also.

That's the reason for the resistor inline with the coil. When the power is first applied to the coil, it looks almost like a dead short, the current will be very high. The resistor controls this somewhat, dropping some of the power across it. As the power continues to flow through the coil, the field builds up around it, and as the field gets larger and larger, the amperage goes down. The resistor drops less and less voltage.

You could probably see your calculated amperage on a oscilloscope. It would be a large spike at the very beginning of the coil charge cycle. But on a regular meter, it's probably not quick enough, and is going average the whole thing out with a lower number. Probably good enough for his purposes.

P.S. To the original poster. I am not sure what the rules are for what you are doing, but if you want a minimalist ignition system that requires little power, I would check into a magneto. They give a very hot spark and require no power at all.

 

I mentioned this before, if you take the time to read what I wrote.

Measure the resistance in the primary circuit. Factor in a 2/3rds duty cycle and it should be very, very close.

 

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Thanks for all the response's.

Franklin2:
the magneto did come up, but we're doing stock systems theory.
Looking to see how far older basic ignition systems can stretch, assisted with minimal newer tech.

For everyone reading;
Just need to remember, that this is all bench racing therory stuff.
Should some pan out in theory, then we give a go to see if it truly works.

Try not to get too passionate about it, for its all in good fun.
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You're "too busy" to take 30 seconds out to take the measurement, but want someone else to do it and report back?

 

Apologies, Tedster9.
Yes been little busy to take the reading.
No need to be a little abrasive.
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Me & fellow enthusiasts all have been busy.
So things such as this, are done when we have the time for ourselves.
Which as of late has been none.