Mazda Distributor Rotor

The Mazda distributor rotor is the main component of the Mazda distributor. Its main function is to sequentially distribute high-voltage electricity to the conductors inside the distributor. Mazda distributor rotors like other Mazda auto parts can be replaced with aftermarket products. To appreciate the importance of the distributor rotor, it is crucial first understand the function of the distributor itself. The distributor is actually a type of switch that regulates the correct firing sequence of the sparkplugs. The firing sequence should be coordinated with the motion of the pistons and the valves. The pistons and valves are moving in alternating manner. Hence, the sparkplugs must also fire in alternating manner. The correct firing sequence is achieved through the distributor rotor.

By rotating at the same speed as the camshaft, the Mazda distributor rotor is able to coordinate its distribution of electricity to the motion of the pistons and the valves. The camshaft is powered by the crankshaft. However, the camshaft rotates at half the speed of the crankshaft because of its bigger pulley. When the pulley of the crankshaft completes one rotation, the camshaft pulley has rotated only half-way. The half-speed of the camshaft relative to the crankshaft is necessary to achieve the right coordination of the opening and closing of the valves, the firing of the sparkplugs and the motion of the pistons. When one piston is undergoing power stroke, the adjacent piston is undergoing exhaust stroke. Power stroke is opposite of exhaust stroke. Although the process happens almost instantaneously, the crankshaft motion is halfway in between. This means that the firing of the sparkplugs must happen halfway.

Perfect timing is achieved by the Mazda distributor rotor by spinning half the speed of the crankshaft. The distributor rotor has two brushes that barely touch the carbon conductors in the periphery of the distributor cap. Each carbon conductor corresponds to one combustion cylinder. The carbon conductors are connected to the distribution pints or outlets on top of the distributor cap. Each distribution point is connected to a sparkplug via an ignition wire. High voltage electricity jumps the small gap between the rotor brush and the carbon conductor. The gap is intended to minimize friction. Carbon conductors are utilized because, unlike metal, they do not melt even under extreme heat. They are also highly conductive.

Distributor rotors facilitate the correct distribution of high voltage electricity to the sparkplugs. Hence, if the distributor rotor becomes defective, the distribution of electricity to the sparkplugs will be drastically affected. Some sparkplugs may fail to discharge sparks. The sparkplugs may become desynchronized with the motion of the pistons and the valves. This will result in the lost of power and eventual breakdown of the engine. Finding the right distributor rotor replacement is convenient if you do your shopping online.