Online Community of Zenith Builders and Flyers
Jabiru 3300 Gen 2: Right ignition not working
Reaching out to others because I have not been able to work through this one. And yes, I have had many calls with Nick at Jabiru, as well as sending him this same query this morning. Just hoping I can find some help from someone who has solved a similar problem or find someone in the San Antonio, Texas area (or reasonable commute) to help solve this and get her back in the air. TIA
Jabiru 3300 Gen 2: Right ignition not working – steps taken to repair
- The engine fires right up but when conducting a mag check there is no drop in RPM when switching the ACS Key Switch from BOTH to L. When switching to R, the engine dies immediately.
- I have checked the key switch on each post with a multi-meter and validated it is working.
- To simplify the problem, I have removed the Rotec E-Ignition that was on the right and replaced with a brand new Honda Coil (PIO525N). I have checked it for resistance on the ground and terminal sides and they are within the tolerances listed in the Jabiru Maintenance Manual JEM002-12 [3.13].
- I have pulled the lead from the coil to the distributor, placed a spark plug in it, grounded it on the engine and can see that it visibly produces a spark when cranking the starter.
- I have pulled the ground wire from the coil to validate there was no short in the ground wire. The engine still stops immediately when I select R.
- The left ignition system still has the original Honda Coil, Jabiru Distributor Cap (Black) and Bosch (Australia) Rotor.
- The right ignition has a brand new (red/orange) distributor cap and rotor. The rotor was installed per Service Bulletin JSA-009, and measures 25mm from tip to center. I have also validated the height of both rotors are the same and they are set on the same rotation.
- Of note: I do still have the original (black) distributor cap and Bosch (Australia) Rotor. Both appear to be in good condition, but the rotor slipped off the shaft easily. I can see that there was epoxy inside but perhaps whomever applied it did not put enough). I could reinstall these items if you think it would help.
- I have also installed all new, properly gapped, spark plugs.
Help, I am completely out ideas and have not been able to find any other mechanics to work on this in the San Antonio area.
Replies to This Discussion
-
Permalink Reply by John Austin
-
Did this just suddenly occur or was there any maintenance or other work done on the engine and then it occurred?
-
Permalink Reply by Michael Starnes
-
It suddenly occurred. I was using the Rotec E-Ignition, and it was functioning well. While on a flight, I noticed I was losing EGT in the #3 cylinder, dropped RPM, and running rough. I landed as quickly as I could. During post-flight inspection, I saw the #3 lead from the left distributor cap had slid off. Closer inspection showed that the right ignition was not working. I disconnected it and reinstalled the coil to simplify the setup. (Not to mention, it will take some time to get a replacement part from Australia)
-
-
FWIW, here's a post about a similar problem: Ignition System Problem Solution there was that the coil was incorrectly oriented.
-
-
Thank you
-
-
I read the article, and I can confirm my coils are correctly oriented, although there is a good point about crossing the high-tension lead over to the opposite side as a test. I can try that this weekend
-
-
After discussing with Nick at Jabiru, I reinstalled the original Bosch Rotor, and that corrected the problem.
-
-
Was the new rotor the design with the screw that secures it rather than epoxy? If so, do you think that was slipping?
New from Zenith:
Zenith Planes & Parts For Sale
Classified listings for buying or selling Zenith builds and parts...
Custom Instrument Panels
for your Zenith:
Custom instrument panels are now available directly from Zenith Aircraft Company exclusively for Zenith builders and owners. Pre-cut panel, Dynon and Garmin avionics, and more.
Zenith Homecoming Tee:
Flying On Your Own Wings:
A Complete Guide to Understanding Light Airplane Design, by Chris Heintz
Builder & Pilot Supplies:
Transition training:
Aircraft Spruce & Specialty for all your building and pilot supplies!
How to videos from HomebuiltHELP.com
Developed specifically for Zenith builders (by a builder) these videos on DVD are a great help in building your own kit plane by providing practical hands-on construction information. Visit HomebuiltHelp.com for the latest DVD titles.
© 2026 Created by Zenith.Aero.
Powered by
