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Wednesday, 18 June 2008

Honda CX500 CDI Schematic

Somebody asked me how to make the DIY cx500 CDI.
Originally I found this CDI schematic from internet long time ago, written by George in NC, however I can't found the link to his site now.

This is the first diagram:

The Actual Honda CDI Circuit Schematic….


click for larger image (not to large aniway...)

Schematic summary: (written by George in NC)

This schematic was given to me by someone in NC who had removed the resin on a non-working CDI and diagramed it. I had also taken the resin off some boards and have found that this diagram is right on the money so it is the basis for the prototypes. There is no difference in the schematic for either the black or gold box (at least none that I’ve found). The only thing to note below is that the ORN and ORN/WHT leads are swapped. The ORN is the left TDC lead and the ORN/WHT is the ADV lead (this also holds true for the LTBLUE leads).

The 3 leads (Ex…ORN/WHT + ORN/RED + ORN or LTBLUE/WHT + LTBLUE/RED + LTBLUE…you get the idea) trigger the SCR (Ex…SCRR or SCRL), with a pulse, to discharge the capacitors (Ex…CR or CL) through the ignition coils (which are step-up transformers/increase the voltage) thus creating a spark at the spark plugs. The power used to charge the capacitors is supplied by the Blue and White wire and the ignition is turned off by the BLK/WHT wire going to ground.

Lead Descriptions: On the above schematic there is an error and the listings below are correct….

Wire

Description

LTBLUE/WHT

pulse lead for SCRR advance

LTBLUE/RED

pulse lead for SCRR gate cutoff

LTBLUE

pulse lead for SCRR TDC/idle gate trigger

ORN/WHT

pulse lead for SCRL ‘full’ advance

ORN/RED

pulse lead for SCRL gate cutoff

ORN

pulse lead for SCRL TDC/idle gate trigger

BLUE

positive pulsing power for discharge capacitor

WHITE

not totally sure, but it is used as the negative half of the alternating current flowing through the positive BLUE.

GREEN

ground to bike frame/engine.

BLK/WHT

goes to ground when kill switch is tripped or ignition is turned off

PEACH/PINK

goes to Right coil

YELLOW

goes to Left coil

Notes:
The first thing to note is the extra SCR (SCRP). I think that this SCRP uses a voltage divider to trigger the gate, so that when the pulse coming from ORN/WHT reaches a certain voltage it sends the trigger pulse to ground. This would basically make it a rev limiter…cute….On the prototypes I’ve put together, I haven’t used this part of the original module yet. Will I? Don’t know…

There is an important note I would like to add about the electrical characteristics of a SCR. An SCR is basically a diode that can be turned on/off like a light switch. The trick is that a SCR cannot be turned “off” until the voltage across it is either zero or a negative value. So how does the SCR in this ignition turn off?? I won’t know for a fact until I get a oscilliscope and do alittle testing.

Basic Component Descriptions:

Item

Description

D8-11

creates positive pulse

D12 & 13

creates negative pulse

R19, R26 & 27

voltage divider

R22, R23

voltage divider

Capacitors

in general, the capacitors (not including CL & CR) are used for filtering out unwanted ‘noise’. An exception could be C4 & C6, which may be used to smooth out the pulse triggering the SCR (SCRR & SCRL).

CL & CR

used to store the charge that is dissipated through the coils to create the spark

SCRL & SCRR

used to ground CL & CR so that charge can be dissipated through the coils

D6 & D7

used to allow negative pulses allowed by the Blue wire resistor/diode network to goto ground?

SCRP

possibly used to send the triggering pulse to ground so as to keep the rpms below a certain point (rev limiter)

Thanks to George in NC for his important information.

I'm blind about motorcycle electronic, so actually I'm not really understand with the above diagram, however I ordered somebody to make the CDI, and its work.

I'll post how to make my home made CDI (including the list of component needed) in the next few days.

Update: OK, the second post of CX500 have been publish, follow this link.

My other posting related to CX500:
1. Honda cx500 review
2. Honda cx500 wiring diagram

Monday, 16 June 2008

Toyota Avanza

Currently Toyota Avanza still hold the best selling for small-medium MPV category in Indonesia. The Toyota Avanza is an Indonesian designed mini MPV produced in Indonesia and also assembled in Malaysia, with supervision from Toyota, who also sell the car under their Daihatsu brand. The car was launched at the Gaikindo Auto Expo in 2003 and sold over 100,000 units that year. The name "Avanza" was taken from the Italian word avanzato, which means "advance".



The Avanza is a new model develop as low premier MPV to split Toyota Kijang/Toyota Unser to 2 different models, another new model is the Toyota Innova which is higher spec and aimed at a higher market.
Toyota Avanza is sold in Indonesia, Lebanon, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, South Africa and Mexico.
1st Generation (2003 - Present)
The model is a five-door MPV with a FR layout. It features a 1.3-litre gasoline engine with a maximum output of 67 kW (92 PS) at 6000 rpm, and a 1.5-litre gasoline engine that produces 80 kW (109 PS) at 6000 rpm.
A special version of the Avanza was launched in late 2004 using a more powerful VVT-i unit. The special edition was also equipped with an automatic transmission.
The Avanza was restyled near the end of the third quarter of 2006 with a new grille, new bumpers, a new interior, and new front and rear lamps. The 2006 model New Avanza S also has a new engine, a 1.5-litre 16-valve DOHC VVT-i gasoline engine (similar to the Toyota Rush) along with the new ABS braking system.
Daihatsu Xenia
The Avanza's twin model is the Daihatsu Xenia, the only Daihatsu to use two engines - the 1.3-litre EFI similar to the Avanza's, and a three-cylinder 1.0-litre with power and torque rating at 63 PS (62 hp/46 kW) at 5600 rpm and 92 N·m (68 ft·lbf) at 3600 rpm.
In China, Daihatsu together with First Automobile Works (FAW) launch the Xenia on 21 June 2007. Production in China will be carried out at FAW Jilin Auto.[2] The Daihatsu Xenia is using 1.3 and 1.5-litre EFI similar to the Avanza's.
Currently Daihatsu Xenia sold in Indonesia and China.
Brief Review
"My brief was to develop the Avanza for the Asean region and at this time, we are only thinking of selling it in the Asean markets. Perhaps we may also offer it in other countries outside Asean but it is not something we are looking at for now," said Kaoru Hosokawa, the Chief Engineer for the Avanza who was present at the media at the Toyota Avanza lunching.
That Toyota chose a MPV for its second low-cost effort was probably influenced by the huge success of the Kijang/Unser over the years. Although the sedan is still a popular bodystyle, people-carriers are much more popular in Indonesia and the Philippines and sell in very large volumes, In Indonesia especially, the Kijang has become something of a ‘national car’ given its sales dominance.
The Avanza has rear-wheel drive which, in the view of Chief Engineer Hosokawa, is more suitable for this type of vehicle and also better for the conditions in the Asean area. While front-wheel drive has its merits and comes in very useful when more space in the cabin is needed, the 4070 mm long Avanza already has enough body length so having RWD is not disadvantageous. It is better when a full load is carried and provides better rear-end traction as weight distribution is better,
The suspension (by the way, the bodywork is monocoque, like a passenger car’s) has a simple design too, making for low cost. Up front are independent MacPherson struts and at the rear, the live axle is located by a 4-link arrangement and rides on coil springs. It’s a proven layout and one which is also durable.
It is also evident that the designers did a lot of studies of this region and found that apart from rough road conditions, there is also flooding along roads. To make sure that Avanza owners have no problems in such conditions, the ground clearance is a generous 180 mm and like the Unser, the air intake is set high up, out of the way of even water splashes into the engine bay.
The rest of the chassis is conventional with a disc/drum brake combination and the tyres have a size of 185/70R14. On the manual version, 5J steel wheels are standard while the automatic comes with alloy wheels (the spare is steel).
Versatility is another highlight of the Avanza and in the spacious cabin, there are three rows of seats to accommodate seven adults. It’s actually very impressive packaging to get the third row into a body with this length and what’s more, the third row is actually comfortable enough for adults. It’s not like the third row seats in some vehicles which are just cushioned pads planted on the cargo area floor and people sitting on them have their knees under their chins.
The second and third row can be folded flat for more cargo space but the third row cannot be removed altogether. Folding of the seats is easy and access to the third row is done by folding the second row seat flat and then flipping it up. The only odd thing is that you can only flip up the seat on the left side as the one of the right won’t do that. So it seems like the model was conceived with righthand drive markets in mind.
The dashboard has a nice modern look with an ergonomically efficient layout of controls and switches. Recognising that the cassette format is going the way of extinction, Toyota Motor’s products planners have fitted a 1-DIN head unit with a CD-player and radio.
For the driver, there’s a very clean instrument panel layout with a touch of sportiness. A tiny differentiation between the manual and automatic version is that the odometer for the former is an analogue type whereas the automatic gets a digital LCD display. The switchgear is classic Toyota, meaning it has a solid feel while the steering wheel has a nice style. Steering column adjustment is not available so you have to live with the position chosen by Toyota.
All the conveniences we’ve come to take for granted are present including power windows (front and rear) and central locking. As a first in its class, the Avanza’s air-conditioning system is a dual blower type with a second set of vents on the ceiling to blow cool air to the rear. The fan speed for the second blower is also adjustable although it would be nice if a switch could be put on the dashboard for the driver to switch it off when not needed.
Storage space is always an important thing in a car these days and even more so in a MPV. For the Avanza, there are no less than 17 storage areas and these include cupholders and even slots for pens and handphones at the rear.
Driving Impression
From this brief drive, it was apparent that the 1.3-litre engine is a robust unit and should offer reasonable performance in normal driving conditions. In the higher rev range, the engine noise does intrude so some extra insulation may be welcome but at town speeds, it is fairly smooth and quiet.
Handling-wise, the Avanza is impressive and very stable in tight turns, It also shows the same stability in fast weaving and this quality could well be something the chief engineer, whose background is in chassis engineering, could well have given a lot of attention to. High marks also go to the ride comfort although we will have to see how the Avanza takes bumps and potholes (which were not present on the smooth test track).

The build quality of the vehicles was very good and those in the showroom can be expected to also be of the high quality typical of Toyota products. Though it’s a low-priced vehicle, Toyota has not compromised in areas that are visible to customers although for under $ 12,000, you obviously cannot expect them to provide the same standards as a Corolla.

UP DATE:Early this year (2009) I have a chance to test a brand new 1.5-litre 16-valve DOHC VVT-i gasoline engine, manual transmission Toyota Avanza for 6 days in Bali, Indonesia. I brought my family with me (wife and my daughter) plus some additional traveling bags, so almost 3/4 of its maximum payload. My first impression is a much better interior improvement compare to the one I tested in 2004. Better dashboard design and quality, plenty cup holders etc.

The engine sound is very minimal from inside, good sound proof. The clutch is light and smooth, change gear is easy. However, after ride just outside the parking lot and enter the busy city road, I feel the gear ratio were to closed one to the other, and for 80km/hrs I should 5th gear and the rpm go up to 2500-2800, the engine is fine but I can feel the sound and vibration while driving.

For extra urban drive, especially in hilly and road likes Bali, the gear ratio are perfect, less body roll (compare to the 1st generation). I never loss a power while over take or climbing hilly road. The fuel consumption is around 1 liter for 14-15 km (extra urban), 12-14km (city drive).

Potential Problem
After few years in the market, the second hand avanza/xenia have some checklist to be inspect:
- advance throttle opening, makes the engine slightly rough and not smooth while start. Go to Toyota/Daihatsu authorized workshop, and make an adjustment in the throttle valve.
- Excessive body roll when the car is not in full load condition. The rear shock absorber slightly too soft. Replace with harder rear shock absorber.
- In early production of xenia/avanza, a problem in clutch release bearing in the transmission is common. The dealer will replace the parts with a better product for free (during guarantee time).




Thursday, 12 June 2008

TheCarConnection.com – One stop automotive information

From 2 door sport car to light truck, from SUV to economic green car, all covered by TheCarConnection.com. This site covered complete information of vehicles including the latest product from almost all automotive manufactures. TheCarConnection.com deep review includes vehicles specification, trims, amazing photo gallery and other expert reviews. Information about common car problem can be found in the “consumer opinions” section.

In my favorite “Tips and Advice” sections, TheCarConnection.com discuss a various subject, starting from general subject like “Better Winter Driving” to more specific subject like; discussion related to your car problem. And if you are interested in new development and product in automotive industry, TheCarConnection.Com News and Blogs can be a useful resource.

Tuesday, 3 June 2008

Renault’s Koleos Concept

Renault’s Koleos Concept makes its Australian debut at the 2008 Melbourne International Motorshow as a pre-cursor to the launch of the full production version in October.

No Compromise

The Koleos Concept car asserts its claim to the rugged and sporty world of 4WDs while featuring the comfort and dynamics of a premium passenger car. It boasts a wide range of practical functions for both everyday use and leisure. To ensure maximum off- and on-road comfort, Koleos Concept is built on a sophisticated allwheel drive chassis and is powered by a 2.0 dCi engine, both of which have been developed within the framework of the Renault-Nissan Alliance.

The Koleos Concept asserts itself as a seriously all-terrain vehicle with a design that blends ruggedness with sports appeal and elegance. It also boasts a wide range of practical functions both for everyday use and leisure, while its cabin offers top level comfort and space.

Penned by Renault designers working in collaboration with the Renault Samsung Motors Design Centre in Korea, its expressive, sporty lines speak of the desire to get away from it all. Its flowing lines have a sophisticated appeal, while the greyblue body colour emphasises a high-tech execution.

A 4WD With Dynamic Lines

Unveiled at the 2006 Paris Motor Show, the Koleos Concept show car foreshadows an integral part of Renault’s future in Australia. Penned by Renault designers working in collaboration with the Renault Samsung Motors Design Centre in Korea. The front end features LED headlamps, with additional lights and indicators housed in the exterior mirrors.

Koleos Concept features dynamic proportions. The strip between the body sides and the roof reinforces the stance of the car. The glazed roof panel is topped by profiled aluminium roof bars, while the chunky wheel arches house 19-inch aluminium alloy wheels fitted with unique "concept pattern" tyres. The 200mm ground clearance and front and rear aluminium protective skid-plates confirm that this is a car built for adventure. The steeply raked rear window further emphasizes Koleos Concept’s dynamic feel. Hinting at the vehicle’s dynamic powertrain, twin exhaust tailpipes are incorporated into the rear bumper.

Technology And Traveling Comfort

The aluminium door sill extensions, which deploy when the doors are open, facilitate ingress. On settling into the cabin, occupants discover a sporty interior, all in a two-tone colour scheme. The four independent seats, upholstered in beige leather, have been optimised to free up space for occupants and their luggage. On the dashboard, the speedometer features LED backlighting. The centre console is made from a transparent material and contains the individual controls for the climate control system. A long list of equipment is included to enhance traveling comfort. The central part of the dashboard is given over to the navigation system, multimedia applications and specific data useful for all-terrain motoring such as atmospheric pressure, compass bearings, altitude and gradient. All this information is displayed so that all the cabin occupants can read it easily. Controls are both intuitive and ergonomically designed – in keeping with the

Touch Design philosophy developed by Renault.

The cabin is brightly lit thanks to the panoramic glass roof panel. Koleos Concept offers all the comfort and roominess of a modern urban car. Ample headroom and shoulder room enable Koleos Concept to seat four adults. The numerous storage compartments in the cabin take their cue from the world of MPVs and extend from those in the floor, to under-seat drawers and the centre console cubby, not to mention the door bins.

A Vehicle That Is Ready For Wide-Open Spaces

Koleos Concept offers a full range of practical features for everyday and leisure use. The split-opening tailgate makes the vehicle easy to load and easy to access in cramped parking spaces.

The lower part of the hatch is designed to enable two people to sit comfortably for picnics or for open-air activities during holidays or weekend excursions. The chassis comes with all the features of an all-terrain vehicle. Developed within the framework of the Renault-Nissan Alliance, the chassis has drawn on the all-wheel drive expertise of our Japanese partner. Whether running in two-wheel or four-wheel drive mode, it guarantees flawless traction and road holding thanks to an electronically controlled active coupler which distributes torque to the wheels as a function of the level of grip available.

Koleos Concept also boasts a wide range of driver aids. Some are designed for day to day motoring, like ABS, Emergency Brake Assist and ESP, while others are valuable all-terrain functions such as Hill Down Control (HDC) and Hill Start Assist (HSA).

Koleos Concept is powered by an engine which is just at home on city streets, highways and motorways as it is over rough tracks. Its 2.0 dCi engine employs state-of-the-art diesel engine technology including piezoelectric injectors, common rail injection and a variable geometry turbocharger. It drives through a six-speed manual gearbox that gives Koleos Concept touring car level driving pleasure.

Koleos Concept – Technical Characteristics

Dimensions

Overall length - 4,520mm

Width (excluding exterior mirrors) - 1,890mm

Height - 1,700mm

Powertrain

Four-cylinder 2.0-litre 16-valve turbocharged diesel engine with particulate filter,

Euro4- compliant

Maximum power - 130kW/180hp

Six-speed manual gearbox

Transmission

Four-wheel drive, transversely-positioned front-mounted engine

Electronic traction control as a function of available grip

(front/rear split from 0 to 100 per cent)

Wheels and Tyres

Wheels – 19”

Tyres - Hankook 255/50 R19

sourtce: www.renault.com.au