History:

High-end ignition systems and electrical components are the focus of MSD Ignition, an American car aftermarket manufacturer.

In 1970, MSD Ignition was the first business in the world to test Multiple Spark Discharge in an internal combustion engine's ignition system. Engineers working on the White Sands Missile Range in southern New Mexico were the ones who initially came up with the concept. The engineers were employed by the research and development firm Autotronic Controls Corporation (ACC), which was working to create fuel systems that burned more efficiently in order to improve engine fuel efficiency. The engineers determined that their inability to ignite the extremely lean air-fuel mixes with enough spark was what was preventing them from burning them efficiently. They were able to offer the first multiple spark system employing capacitive discharge after extensive research and development, and they released it on the market under the name Multiple Spark Discharge (MSD).

Company:

Since its founding, MSD has had a presence in the broader El Paso, Texas, area. On the east side of the city, it now boasts facilities that span two buildings and more than 100,000 square feet. Currently, the majority of the business and engineering operations are housed in a building that has been part of the firm for more than 20 years, while the US manufacturing procedures are carried out in a cutting-edge facility a block away.

When Jack Priegel, the company's original owner, chose to retire in 2004, he sold the business to a private investing firm. Gryphon Investors made the announcement that it will buy the business and appointed Dan Gresham as CEO. Z Capital announced in December 2013 that it has purchased MSDG, the parent firm of MDS.

How to Check Your MSD Ignition Box For Damage:

For the Racer who believes their MSD®Ignition has failed, TechWest Racing Services will guide you through a quick test to determine whether your MSD®Ignition has indeed failed.

You must first have a Volt/Ohm meter (this check can be performed with an analog or digital meter as well). The results of the test won't be affected by the type of meter used. Place the MSD®Ignition in about the same orientation as it is placed in the car after setting your volt/ohm meter to the 1k ohms scale. To make sure the MSD®Ignition is roughly where it was when the failure occurred, this is done. Next, take either lead and fasten it to the MSD®naked Ignition's metal surface.

The second lead has to be connected to the large red wire, which is your main source of 12 volts direct current. The needle will remain in the home position with a damaged MSD®Ignition (ie. max Ohms for scale chosen). The measurement of a damaged MSD®Ignition will be 3k ohms or less.

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