Safety With Ignition Systems



Keep these 8 safety precautions in mind when working with ignition systems.

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1.  Always wear OSHA-approved safety glasses when
     working on any ignition system.

2.  When working on any ignition system when the
     engine is running, always keep your hands away
     from the spark plug wires.  In addition, be careful
     not to drop any tools into the fan or pulleys on the
     front of the engine.

3.  Never use your hands to pull high-tension wires
     off the spark plugs when the engine is running.
     Use the correct spark plug wire pliers to remove
     a spark plug wire.

4.  When replacing parts or doing other work on the
     ignition system, always make sure the ignition
     system is off.  If it is left on, a spark may be
     produced, causing gasoline fumes to ignite.



Back to Safety

5.  Always use the correct tools when working on
     electronic and computerized ignition systems.

6.  When removing spark plug wires from any ignition
     system, be careful of the hot exhaust manifolds or
     the headers.  Make sure the engine has cooled
     down before removing wires and spark plugs.

7.  If you are using a volt/ohmmeter to check
     resistances on an ignition system, make sure the
     circuit has been disconnected and the ignition
     system is off.

8.  When testing any ignition system, always follow
     the manufacturer’s suggested diagnosis and
     service procedure.