123 Ignition distributor for Volvo B18, B20

Electronic Distributor 123 Ignition for Volvo B18, B20 – 123-B20

123-B20 is a fully electronic, breakerless ignition distributor for Volvo's four-cylinder B18 and B20 engines, including marine AQ versions.

The distributor replaces the original ignition distributor and houses all electronics internally. No contact points, condenser or external control units are required. The electronic ignition can also provide smoother engine operation and reduced maintenance.

This is the second generation of 123 Ignition, with the ignition curve selector located on the side of the distributor.

Fits the Following Engines

• Volvo B18: Four-cylinder petrol engine

• Volvo B20: Four-cylinder petrol engine

• Volvo Penta AQ: Marine versions based on B18 and B20 engines

Note! For Volvo B20E engines with D-Jetronic fuel injection, the 123-B20E distributor is required instead, as it provides the necessary trigger signal for the injection system.

Features and Benefits

• 16 built-in ignition curves: Select the appropriate curve using a rotary switch on the side of the distributor. Curves are available for different engine configurations and fuels, including E85 and LPG.

• Cylinder balancing: The electronics adjust ignition timing individually for each cylinder, helping provide smoother engine operation and a more stable idle.

• Electronic dwell control: Adjusts ignition coil charging time and helps protect the coil against overheating.

• Maintenance-free breaker system: No contact points or condenser to adjust or replace.

• Built-in LED: Makes initial ignition timing adjustment easier during installation.

The distributor cap and rotor remain wear parts that must be inspected and replaced when necessary.

Specifications

• Model: 123-B20

• Brand: 123 Ignition

• Product type: Electronic ignition distributor

• Generation: 2

• Number of ignition curves: 16

• Vacuum connection: Yes, with hose fitting

• Ignition leads: Existing standard ignition leads can be used

• Installation instructions: Included

Recommended Accessories

We recommend using a suitable high-quality ignition coil:

• 241611-NGK: NGK

• 241611-Bosch: Bosch

• 241611-Bremi: Bremi

For customers who want programmable ignition timing, the separate 123-B20TunePlus model is also available.

Important Installation Information

Initial timing adjustment: The distributor has a built-in LED for setting the initial ignition timing according to the installation instructions.

Vacuum connection: The distributor features vacuum-controlled ignition advance. If the vacuum connection is not used, vacuum-dependent advance is disabled and only engine-speed-dependent ignition advance is active.

Vehicles with armoured ignition coils: On vehicles with an original ignition coil and armoured ignition cable, terminal 15 is not accessible. A separate relay circuit is therefore required to provide the distributor with the correct 12 V power supply.

A wiring diagram for this is included in the installation instructions.

Always check the engine configuration and select the correct ignition curve before use.