Here is the deal. I want timming control inside my car while driving. So I ordered the TRC-1, not knowing there were two different part numbers. So basically I have a TRC-1 for a Ford TFI Ignition. They no longer make the TRC-1. It has been discontinued. The reason it had to be a TRC-1 version is because it uses the EST timming to retard the coil. The reason I need this is because I have the Delteq system--so I have multiple coils.

So I call crane cams and they were not all that helpful. I wanted to know how each one manipulated the timming. The guy did suprisinly go back and talk to the Engineers so he says. He then informed me that it was information that could not be released. I guess I just don't know why, since it's obviously not worth making since they quite making them. So basically I am going to try some electronic testing and see what I can find, and hopfully not fry it.

If anyone can explain what signal the TFI ignition uses that would be great. Or the output that goes to the coil looks like. I have searched and searched and it seems no on has an scope of the signal.

Anyone have any ideas. It seems it has to be possible.

Here is the wiring schematics......they both wire up the exact same, so it makes me believe they are not as different as they might make you believe.


http://www.cranecams.com/pdf/9000910...ee25d9f15d5def

If you scroll down you can see the opti-spark wiring set-up.


It was never suppose to be this hard

 

I am fairly certain the EST is a digital signal. But I have no idea about the TFI as it is out of date i believe, because of all the problems they had with it.

 

From Autozone's website:


Electronic Spark Timing (EST) System

The EST system includes the following circuits:

Reference circuit - provides the ECM with rpm and crankshaft position information from the C3I module. The C3I module receives this signal from the crank sensor Hall-effect switch.

Bypass signal - above 400 rpm, the ECM applies 5 volts to this circuit to switch spark timing control from the C3I module to the ECM.

EST signal - reference signal is sent to the ECM via the C3I module during cranking. Under 400 rpm, the C3I module controls the ignition timing. Above 400 rpm, the ECM applies 5 volts to the bypass line to switch the timing to the ECM control.

Electronic Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

The ECM/PCM is responsible for maintaining proper spark and fuel injection timing for all driving conditions.