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  1. The act of changing ignition timing: This refers to the adjustment made to the timing of the spark plug firing in relation to the position of the piston within the engine cylinder. Advancing the ignition timing means causing the spark to occur earlier in the engine cycle.
  2. Device for adjustment: “Advance” can also refer to the mechanism or device used to make this adjustment. Various types of advance mechanisms exist, including centrifugal advance mechanisms, electronic spark advance systems, and vacuum advance systems.
  3. Railway signal length: In the context of railways, “advance” can also refer to the distance of railway track beyond a signal that is covered by that signal. This helps ensure that the signal provides adequate warning and braking distance for trains approaching it.

Associated terms:

  • Angle of advance: The specific degree or angle by which the ignition timing is advanced.
  • Automatic advance: An advance mechanism that adjusts ignition timing automatically based on engine conditions.
  • Centrifugal advance: An advance mechanism that uses centrifugal force to adjust ignition timing based on engine speed.
  • Electronic spark advance: An advance system that uses electronic control to adjust ignition timing.
  • Ignition advance: The general concept of advancing ignition timing.
  • Ported vacuum advance: A type of vacuum advance system that uses vacuum pressure to adjust ignition timing.
  • Spark advance: Another term for ignition advance.
  • Speed control vacuum advance: A vacuum advance system that adjusts ignition timing based on engine speed.
  • Vacuum advance: A mechanism that adjusts ignition timing based on vacuum pressure in the intake manifold.

These terms are crucial for understanding and optimizing engine performance and efficiency in various applications.

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