Definition

Noun: - The timing of ignition relative to the position of the piston in an internal-combustion engine: This term refers to the precise adjustment of when the spark plug fires in relation to the piston's movement within the cylinder. It is a critical setting for engine efficiency and performance.

Usage

"Spark advance" is a technical term used primarily in automotive and mechanical engineering contexts. It describes a specific engine timing parameter.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The mechanic adjusted the spark advance to improve the car's fuel efficiency.
  • Too much spark advance can cause engine knocking, which is harmful.

Advanced Usage

• "To set the spark advance": To adjust the ignition timing to a specific position.

  • You need special tools to properly set the spark advance on older vehicles.

• "Initial spark advance": The base timing setting before any automatic adjustments by the engine's control systems.

  • Check the manual for the correct specification for initial spark advance.

Variants and Related Words

• Ignition timing: A more general synonym for the same concept.
• Advance (in this context): Often used shorthand within the field (e.g., "more advance," "less advance").
• Spark retard: The opposite adjustment, where ignition is timed to occur later.

Synonyms

• Ignition timing
• Timing advance

Related Phrases

• Mechanical advance: A system that adjusts timing based on engine speed using centrifugal weights.
• Vacuum advance: A system that adjusts timing based on engine load using intake manifold vacuum.

Noun

1. the timing of ignition relative to the position of the piston in an internal-combustion engine