I am getting a discount on two replacement mags which I intend to use while I figure out what electronic system to go to.  I intend to check them frequently, and I don't mean the run-up check that I have done before every take-off and that has always been perfect.  Check out whatever Deakin article claims that runup checks are a complete waste of time, which I now put more stock in than I used to.  I have no idea if the controller box is contributing anything but I intend to test that too when I get it reinstalled.  And I still don't know why the engine missed only with the LASAR system on.  Without it, I would presumably still be fat, dumb and happy (instead of being only two of the foregoing) flying around with two "shot" mags tbat do just fine on runup.

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I have written before about the LASAR system and will add just a bit more.  I was shocked when I added a panel switch to cut the power to LASAR controller, thus making it run on the mags.  Initially I had better performance on the mags only because the LASAR switching relays (in the mag bulge in the cable) failed so that the controller and the mags were both trying to issue sparks thus making the system perform worse than mags only.  Unison happily replaced the "mags."

 

I have run my IO 320 with the LASAR O-320 controller (most aggressive timing advance), the O-360 (less aggressive) and the IO-360 (least aggressive) and I do not see much difference below 24" MAP (where advancement should begin).  The benefit has been "electronic" ignition operation at engine start and for high power, low altitude flights (races). On the other hand, .018 plug gaps (so the backup mag operation can make the spark jump) somewhat defeats the better, more consistently delivered "electronic" spark.

 

So......

 

I have looked at the P-Mags (complete self-powered electronic ignition) at emagair.com, but I am concerned that not enough experience exists with "peculiar" engine setups - like mine.

 

I have finally decided to do the extra work and install twin Lightspeed electronic ignitions with a backup battery.

 

Join me in the 2005 Air Venture Cup Race and I'll tell you how they work for me.