Magneto Rotation

Magneto Rotation

There is often confusion when describing the direction of rotation of a magneto. The correct way to do this is to do so when looking at the drive end. There is often an arrow somewhere on the magneto body indicating rotation but this should not be considered conclusive as things may have been changed over the years. Most users look at the points end and check to see which way they rotate but remember that the points are at the opposite end to the drive end so rotate the opposite way!
These Lucas points show the differences required to allow for different rotations. The fibre heel on the moving point should always be 'pulled' behind the point's pivot point - never 'pushed' ahead of it. Knowing this, it can be seen that the points shown on the left  rotate clockwise, those on the right rotate anti-clockwise. This is  where confusion can arise. Yes, the points on the left rotate clockwise, but are fitted to an anticlockwise magneto.
If you do have a magneto which is designed to run in the wrong direction for your application, it can usually be reversed as described in our Technical section on the Reversing Direction - Magnetos page.

REMEMBER - the description 'anticlockwise magneto' always refers to the direction of rotation as viewed from the drive end - not the points end
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