Spark plug in rear of Honda Civic?

Question

My son has bought a little 1990's Honda Civic, tuned headers into 2" pipe, twin carbs, twin cam 16 valve head etc. While putting his stereo in we discovered a complete ignition system set up in the rear. It appears to lead to the muffler, which was a twin sports system but is now a new standard looking muffler box with twin outlets. There is no sparking plug fitted so the lead just dangles near the muffler box. Allegedly this car was supercharged at some time. It goes very hard just like it is.

Update:

The car is an unleaded model, and if it did have a supercharger on it once as rumored it must have been obscenely fast. We had no intention of using this igniter - it would be as damaging as the old skool key bangers I imagine. Thanx. :)

J. E · Accepted Answer

sounds to me like it may have been a custom job using exhaust igniters in the old sport exhaust. the it would have been meant to shoot flames out the back of the car. now that the exhaust is changed, the system is useless. also illegal to use on the road, just so you know. might not be what it is, but it's a thought

Robert · Answer

I agree with JE. Before catalytic converters spark plugs were installed near the end of the tail pipe. It would set there an spark away while the driver gassed the engine and briefly shut off then on the ignition. This pumped unburned air/fuel out of the exhaust and when it hit that spark plug it would ignite the air/fuel and shoot flames out of the tail pipe.

Catalytic converters stop the unburned fuel and the law takes a dim view of the practice on the streets. Still it shows up at some race tracks and car shows on leaded cars. It is all for show.

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Spark plug in rear of Honda Civic?

2 Answers