Nova module and ignition timing

[Mathewsdxt75]

I figured I would share what I was wondering about the nova modules and what I found out.
I have my old Echo 302s that wasn't running good at all. I had it pin pointed to an ignition issue. So instead of replacing points and condensor, I chose to install a nova module. After install, I had spark so I completely reassembled saw and it fired right up.
But I was curious with how close the timing would be. Understanding that it triggers off where the flywheel is as rotates past the coil. I decided to check the timing. This particular saw has marks on the flywheel and case to time the saw. I verified that the one mark is exactly at TDC and the next mark is at 30 degrees per saws spec on timing.
So with a timing light in hand, I spun the saw over with the fastest drill I have. And behold, the timing is at 33 degrees BTDC. Now I know.
So for anyone wondering if the the nova modules time ok. On this particular saw, it is spot on.

 

[smokey7]

Very good to know. ..... I have always wondered how they could possibly time correctly.

 

[lwhaples]

Thanks for sharing.

 

[Stihlbro]

Good thread, great information! Appreciate the time and effort.

 

[Poleman]

I put a points coil and one on a Stihl 031 electronic that had no spark and it started first pull and ran better then it had in years. I just checked the spark and it was very strong and crisp.

Good units!

 

[jake wells]

I have used them on anything that uses points they seem to work fine in old stihl and echo saws.
put one in a 041 with a bad condenser and it ran 10x better than it ever did before.

 

[Stump Shot]

Those little inexpensive modules really save a lot of saws that would otherwise be left alone. Also if the particular saw series was updated at a later time with a modulated coil that sometimes can be substituted for points type. I just did this to a little Homelite XL, saves having to find a place to mount the NOVA module and wiring.
Basically in a nut shell so to speak, the points are set to go the same time as the coil is ready Add wear from run time the dwell angle gets off and the timing with the coil is not spot on This is generally speaking why when replaced with an electronic module, the engine runs better. That's why "tune ups" were a regular necessity back when I was a lot younger.

 

[jake wells]

electronic ignition is the greatest thing that ever happened to chainsaws.

 

[Stump Shot]

The saw engines can definitely run faster with electronic ignition, that's for sure. Points will float at a high RPM and for all purposes act like a rev limiter of sorts. At what RPM depends how much spring tension they are under, more tension, more RPM and a lot more wear.

 

[hoskvarna]

I tried puttin a nova module on a 032 to replace points and condensor.
Had good spark but wouldnt run.
Was told I needed a electronic ign flywheel,timing was 180 off.
Is this true or does anyone know?

 

[Mathewsdxt75]

I tried puttin a nova module on a 032 to replace points and condensor.
Had good spark but wouldnt run.
Was told I needed a electronic ign flywheel,timing was 180 off.
Is this true or does anyone know?

That doesn't seem right. The magnets and flywheel keyway didn't change so 180 off don't make sense. I did see on a thread somewhere that some saws, the two wires on the module need to be flipped around.

 

[hoskvarna]

Tried that. Idk??????


Sent from Hoskvarna hills

 

[Mathewsdxt75]

Interesting....... that is strange. Hopefully someone else will chime in with an answer.

 

[Magic_Man]

I tried puttin a nova module on a 032 to replace points and condensor.
Had good spark but wouldnt run.
Was told I needed a electronic ign flywheel,timing was 180 off.
Is this true or does anyone know?

When I put one on an old 031 that had points the timing was way off, would barely run. I put a timing light on it and it was firing at TDC. So I had to advance the timing by about 30 degrees and it ran like a champ.

 

[hoskvarna]

Thats more info than I have found. Thanks


Sent from Hoskvarna hills

 

[Mark71gtx]

@Magic_Man how did you go about changing the timing? Delete the key? I have a 31 I did the same thing to and it runs and cuts, but it feels like there is a LOT of missing power... also, please explain the method in a way that is easy to follow. Thanks!

 

[Magic_Man]

@Magic_Man how did you go about changing the timing? Delete the key? I have a 31 I did the same thing to and it runs and cuts, but it feels like there is a LOT of missing power... also, please explain the method in a way that is easy to follow. Thanks!

Yep, took the key out. Key is just a reference point, make sure you torque it down good and it will stay.

 

[Mark71gtx]

Lol, when I got the saw (in a bucket) I determined the cause of it's demise... the key was sheared. Now it is the reason it runs like crap... go figure!

 

[Magic_Man]

Lol, when I got the saw (in a bucket) I determined the cause of it's demise... the key was sheared. Now it is the reason it runs like crap... go figure!

Slow to rev and no power in the cut ? Mine runs like a champ, tourque for days out of a sub 50cc saw.

 

[Mark71gtx]

I don't recall a slow rev, but I do recall it not ever sounding like it hit peak revs. Also weak in the cut. It will cut, but it is not something anyone would want to take in the woods to do a days work with. A Poulan wild thing would cut circles around it.