1989 Vette - Distributor Ignition Module
 

Distributor Ignition Module - does this need a conductive gel as part of the install? I purchased a module from a local parts store, but I didnt
get one in the kit.

Thanks

Yes...use dielectric grease and spread it on the bottom plate generously. Just did mine a few weeks back

Thanks .. I thought I was missing this when I purchased the mod

You want to use a heat sink thermal paste/grease. Usually
White in color. This allows the ignition control module to transfer
the heat to the distributor base.

Available at Radio Shack or most electronic stores.

http://www.radioshack.com/search/ind...+compound&sr=1

I agree dont use the dielectric grease for this job, Use the Thermal paste.

Probably explains why my module burned out after 26 years....should have used the thermal compound :thumbs:

If you are going to go to that extreme...you might as well get the silver paste called "Arctic Silver" ....the white stuff is good for diaper rash :rofl:

Its more than likely thats what your car came with, I just changed mine out and the new one came with thermal heat sink paste. Dont take my word for it do a search here on the forum....if you feel the need to be vindicated. :flag:

Quick question fellas. I have heard this module can be behind hard to start and no starts on hot days or when the car is hot. Is this true?

Yes, that is correct.

There are other items that will cause a hard to start/hot day/hot engine no start.

A bad ICM can also cause the engine to shut off and stop running at any time "Like on the highway going 70 mph"..Ask me how I know....:ack:...WW

ICM is this the same as the ECM the Electronic Control Module. Also does anyone know were it is in a 1989.. Haynes manual shows it on the side of the radiator... Its not there.. Dont tell me its in the dash...

On my 87 it's between the right fender and heater box.

Ok.. I have check the right pass side .. I see were the heater core and the fender there is nothing.. one the side of the heater core housing next to the engine. There is two wire connector going in to the housing
could this be the ECM?? can you send me a pic of your ECM location ..
glewis954@aol.com

Just to clarify.. the ECM (Electronic Control Module) is not the same as the ICM (Ignition Control Module)..

The ICM is under the distributor cap.

The ECM (or computer) is under the right side of the dash.

If you are talking about the ESCM (Electronic Spark Control Module)..

It's on the right side of the blower motor housing,left side looking from the front....(at least in my 87)

http://members.shaw.ca/agent86/Rear%...ompartment.gif

Keystring
Thank you.. I have located all of the items.. ICM has been changed..
ESCM - ordering.. I am going to check for the ECM now.. Does the ECM
have to be programed if I purchase a new one???

Quite honestly, I don't know.. I've never had to change one.

Thank for the information..

No programming is necessary.

You will need to remove your PROM (chip) from your old ECM and install in the new one.

Very easy to do.

TorchRedlt4man
Thank you for the information..

The ICM (Ignition Control Module) is inside the distributor.

You need to move the MEMCAL from the old ECM to the new one. It holds the program that runs your car. It's under a cover on the ECM housing held on by two 1/4" hex-head screws. It looks like this:

http://www.misterpeachy.com/VettePics/MEMCAL.JPG