Ford Mustang (1999-2004) Service Manual: Engine Ignition (Description and Operation)

The ignition coil (12029), which is mounted on the upper intake manifold, can be described as a coil pack containing three separate coil units. Each coil unit is individually controlled by the powertrain control module (PCM) (12A650) through separate wire leads. Each coil unit activates two spark plugs wired in a series by the spark plug wires (12286).

  • One spark plug activates on the compression stroke and uses the majority of the ignition coil's stored energy.
  • The other spark plug activates on the exhaust stroke and uses very little of the ignition coil's stored energy.
  • Because the pairs of spark plugs are connected in a series, one spark will travel from ground to the electrode while the other spark will travel from the electrode to ground.

The spark plug (12405):

  • changes the high voltage pulse into a spark which ignites the fuel and air mixture.
  • originally equipped on the vehicle has a platinum-enhanced active electrode for long life.

The crankshaft position (CKP) sensor (6C315):

NOTE: Initial engine ignition timing is set at 10 degrees +- 2 degrees before top dead center (BTDC) and is not adjustable.

  • is a variable reluctance sensor triggered by a 36-minus-1 tooth trigger pulse wheel located on the crankshaft (6303) inside the engine front cover (6019).

The sine wave type signal generated from the crankshaft position sensor provides two types of information:

  • position of the crankshaft in 10 degree increments
  • the crankshaft speed (rpm)

The powertrain control module (PCM) (12A650) uses this information to determine ignition coil turn ON and turn OFF times and misfire detection.

Engine Ignition (DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING)

Refer to the Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) manual.

    Engine Ignition - 3.8L
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    Ignition Coil
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    Other materials:

    Retractor - Rear Seat Safety Belt, Coupe
    Special Tool(s) Torx Bit, Safety Belt Bolt 501-010 (T77L-2100-A) Removal 1. Remove the quarter trim panel (31012) and the angel wing trim. For additional information, refer to Section. 2. Using the special tool, remove the D-ring bolt. 3. U ...

    Special Testing Procedures
    The special tests are designed to aid the technician in diagnosing the hydraulic and mechanical portion of the transmission. Engine Idle Speed Check Refer to the Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) manual for diagnosis and testing of the eng ...

    Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Hose
    Removal and Installation 1. Disconnect the hose on the PCV valve. 2. Twist and remove the PCV valve. 3. To install, reverse the removal procedure.   ...