Definition
The stationary part of a high-tension magneto distributor that holds the electrodes connected to the spark plug leads. The rotor inside the magneto turns past these fixed electrodes and delivers high-voltage current to each one in turn, in the firing order of the engine.
Plain English
A round, fixed piece inside the magneto with metal contacts wired to each spark plug. As the rotor spins past these contacts, it sends the spark to the right cylinder at the right time.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft engine fuel-injection system descriptions, maintenance manuals, and troubleshooting discussions for uneven or rough engine operation.
Derivation
From 'distributor' (something that hands things out) and 'block' (a solid piece holding parts in place). The word fits its job: a solid block that distributes the spark to each cylinder in turn.
Why Pilots Care
A faulty distributor block can cause misfiring, rough engine operation, or failure to start, directly affecting flight safety.
Intuition Check
Do not assume this is an electrical distributor. In this context, it is a fuel-system part that routes fuel to the cylinders.
Example Sentence 1
During the magneto inspection, the mechanic found a small crack in the distributor block and replaced it before signing off the engine.
Example Sentence 2
Proper timing depends on the distributor block correctly sequencing the spark to each cylinder.