Zündverteilereinheit

A Zündverteilereinheit, often translated as ignition distributor unit or simply distributor, is a key component in older gasoline engine ignition systems. Its primary function is to distribute the high voltage current generated by the ignition coil to the correct spark plug at the precise moment needed for combustion in each cylinder. This timing is crucial for the engine's smooth operation and power output.

The Zündverteilereinheit typically consists of a rotor and a distributor cap. The rotor, driven by the engine's camshaft or crankshaft, spins and aligns itself with different terminals on the inside of the distributor cap. These terminals are connected by wires to each spark plug. As the rotor rotates, it bridges the gap between the central terminal (connected to the ignition coil) and the terminal for the spark plug that is due to fire. This allows the high voltage to jump from the coil through the rotor and cap to the spark plug, initiating the spark.

Many Zündverteilereinheiten also incorporate a mechanism for adjusting ignition timing, such as vacuum or centrifugal advance. Vacuum advance adjusts timing based on engine load, while centrifugal advance adjusts it based on engine speed. These systems help optimize combustion efficiency and performance across different operating conditions. While largely replaced by electronic ignition systems in modern vehicles, the Zündverteilereinheit was a standard and vital part of automotive engineering for many decades.