Homebrew HiPo ignition

I have long wondered about the possibility of using alternate ignition setups on small engines. I see the cheap cdi kits for GY6 and similar scooters and wonder, could they be made to work? Or could a system like the older ford duraspark, GM HEI, or a mopar box work?

Correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't the stock electronic ignitions on these engines simple magnetic triggered coils? Stock ford duraspark distributors use a simple pickup module that could be easily mounted in place of a stock coil, and it could signal the module to fire the coil or coils as the magnets on the flywheel pass.

You could technically run an MSD style box that would give you multispark, and even run a rev limiter so it'd keep you below 3600rpm.

Am I on to something? I want to hear what y'all think.

I've heard of people using GM coils on Onan twins because those factory coils are ridiculously expensive. Not too hard of a conversion it seems...

Gotta love paying for a name. Lol

Yes, You can adapt the automotive ignition setups on these small engines. Just need to have a trigger for them. Just using the magnet on the flywheel might not work unless you modify it somehow to be smaller. The setups for HEI, you need a pinpoint trigger, not a big magnet. I think the main reason for not using HEI on these motors is because you need an external power source that can supply a heavy amp draw, like 10 to 15 amps constantly to just run the motor. There are spark boxes styled like an automotive setup for these motors already. and are OK priced too.

I think they even have kits for small engines that you can get. I'm not really into anything electrical much so all I have is a very basic understanding of ignition systems really, but I have heard of kits out there. Which of course work the same as prancstaman just said, only they give you all the pieces and some instructions.

...i just seen this...

Thars a man (Brian Miller) in Columbia Missouri that sells parts to do this and he has a nice website to show how its dun...
P.S. all off the shelf!
Brian Miller's Garden Tractor Pulling Tips & Tricks!  <---<< Link