AEM C2DI Frequently Asked Questions
What parts are available and what do I need?
Great question! Basically, AEM sells either a 4-channel or 8-channel ignition amplifier that is designed to drive
a multi-coil (distributorless) ignition system to produce greater than stock ignition pulses. You need a channel for each coil on your
car. (Choose the 8-channel controller if you have a 6- or 8-coil ignition.) In most cases the AEM C2DI can
drive the stock coils if your factory setup uses a multi-coil ignition, but if you don't have multi-coil or if you
would like to switch to coil-on-plug ignition, they also offer pencil coils that will attach directly to your spark
plugs. Here's a quick overview:
Can I put a multi-channel CDI on to my production car?
If your car originally came with multiple coils then you can install a multi-channel CDI with minimal modifications. The only exceptions are cars where the OEM coils have the igniter built in. On these, the coils will have to be replaced as well.
How is a multi-channel CDI different from a normal CDI?
Most CDI's on the market today are single channels. That means that they can only drive one coil. That's fine if you have a distributor or a single cylinder engine. Newer cars have multiple ignition coils, which require a multi-channel CDI.
Will my stock coils work with a CDI?
Yes, most stock coils will work just fine with a CDI.
What is a CDI?
CDI stands for Capacitive Discharge Ignition. A CDI is a high-performance ignition system that stores its energy in a capacitor. It has the potential for very high spark energy as well as having the ability to run at high RPM.
What is C2DI?
C2DI is AEM's Patent Pending CDI technology. It features twin storage capacitors, allowing for the fastest full energy recharge in the market. This means you can make more power at higher revs.
What is Multi-strike?
Multi-strike is the process of firing the spark plug multiple times at low RPM to aid in idle, throttle response and engine start. The AEM CDI can deliver up to 8 full energy spark events sequentially.
My car has I distributor, but I want to go distributorless, what do I do?
You will need to get an ignition controller box that can support multiple coil outputs. Check if there is an AEM EMS for your vehicle. Once replaced, you will need a multi-channel CDI as well as new coils.
I have a rotary engine, how can the AEM C2DI help me?
AEM's patent-pending C2DI technology was created with rotaries in mind. It allows you to run both leading and trailing spark plugs and get full spark energy, on each plug, independent of the split timing amount. No other ignition does this. This unleashes the horsepower of the rotary engine.