What component closes the breaker points in a small engine?

The component responsible for closing the breaker points in a small engine is the spring. In the ignition system of small engines, the breaker points are part of the coil assembly, and they function by opening and closing to control the flow of electrical current to the ignition coil. The spring plays a crucial role in this process by providing the necessary tension that allows the points to close securely after being opened by the rotation of the cam or flywheel.

When the engine operates, the rotor or cam pushes the breaker points open, interrupting the current and causing a magnetic field in the coil to collapse, which generates a high-voltage spark. Once the rotor moves away from the points, the spring forces them closed, allowing the cycle to repeat. This precise operation is essential for maintaining the timing of the ignition spark and ensuring smooth engine performance.

In contrast, components like the coil and nut serve different functions within the ignition system, while a valve pertains to the intake or exhaust, which is unrelated to the functioning of the breaker points. Understanding the role of the spring enhances comprehension of how ignition systems work in small engines and the importance of each component in the overall operation.