An electromagnetic coil is placed between each set of magnetic pistons. The core of the coil is ferric material to which the pistons are attracted. These pistons are oriented so that the North and South poles are facing each other. As the magnetic pistons are attracted and drawn towards each other they become closer to the coil between them. 

  In a conventional motor, the magnetic fields are at register only at one point in the rotation of the armature. The axial force between two magnets is much greater than the tangential force. The Opposing Piston Motor takes advantage of this axial force by facing the magnets to each other at register moving through a common axis. This applies to the attraction of the two pistons as well as the repulsion. The Opposing Piston Motor uses the coil to repel two magnets and uses two magnets to simultaneously attract to the core of the coil and to each other.  

   When the magnetic pistons are at their closest proximity to the coil core, the timing circuit is closed and a current pulse is delivered to the coil. The coil is wired such that the current flow creates an opposing magnetic field to that of the magnetic pistons. This works to offset the magnetization induced in the core. The coil reduces the field induced in the core, and can even overcome it and provide repulsion at sufficient voltage. The magnetic pistons gain kinetic energy while being attracted to the stator core and the next set of pistons are attracted towards the coil. Consequently, the current applied to the coil cancels out the drag back of the pistons to the coil core and the pistons are free to move away from the coil using the remaining inertia gained in the attraction stage and the momentum of the crankshaft and flywheel. The next set of pistons is attracted toward the coil and the process is repeated.

   The two cylinder motor is comparable to a simple two-pole motor that is used primarily for instructional purposes. Since the motor has only two cylinders, it operates rather roughly and does not provide too much torque. Additional coils and pistons must be added to the motor for it to become useful for industry.