I have a 1965 that is 99% restored and I have one continuous final problem my builder is trying to solve and I would love some advise.
We have a fresh rebuilt 327. We put in a NEW Lectric Limited engine harness and voltage regulator. New Pertronix and coil
New alternator. We keep blowing the Pertronix. My builder replaced it again and disconnected the alternator. It seems to be starting fine over the last week. Do I need to add some sort of diode to the voltage regulator to control the volts???
If anyone has experienced this I would greatly appreciate your help and knowledge.
Thanks
Rob.

 

Where you having trouble with the points that you needed the new widget?

 

Thanks for your quick reply.
No. The thought was to upgrade to an EI. The car was in storage for 20 years and we finally restored it and replaced and rebuilt everything mechanicle.
The points were used 20 years ago. When it last ran.

 

I ain't in it!

 

I would put the points back in. If it runs then you know where your problem is

 

Frankie?

 

We know it was the Pertronix
We replaced them again and it now runs. The problem is we keep frying the Pertronix. We are on our 3rd set. Why are we continueing to fry them?
What have we done wrong?

 

I am soooo tempted to answer this, but I won't.

 

What model of Pertronix are you using?
Transient voltage suppressors (Transorb diodes) across the power inputs of the Pertronix will protect the electronics. They come in various voltage and power sizes.
A large capacitor across the power terminals will also protect the device.

 

Its weird that people here love televisions, radios, computers, cell phones but not electronic ignitions!

 

Sadly, semiconductor devices are more prone to damage from abuse than metal points!
Too much current or too much voltage.

I would call Pertronix and ask them what kills their device. I'm sure they know.

I've been running pertronix for 3 years now - no issues

 

this is one of the more polarizing topics here.

Some feel that Pertronix-type devices cause everything from blown coils to early onset dementia.

Some feel that Chrysler used electronic ignitions and that when properly designed and installed they work fine.

I suppose the best thing is to ask WHICH specific coil, which specific pertronix module and which specific ballast resistor (if any) was used.

The original Pertronix Ignitor had a problem with the key being left ON; you could cook the module.
Ignitor II's this seems much less likely to happen.

Did you install per the mfg directions; and is there a chance you may have damaged something during the install?

Have you tested the alternator to make sure its functioning properly?
I *hate* points. Im 34 and to me its akin to a rube goldberg invention. I also refuse to do roadside repairs (I dont need some dithering fool on a cellphone to club me like a seal with her Escalade). Since most parts stores stock a Pertronix, and I have a rollback service per my insurance - Im not one to worry about oozing enough machismo to repair my car on the side of the road. Nevermind that most of the guys here wouldn't let their points get far enough out of whack to actually DIE on the side of the road and absolutely require an adjustment at 2am on the roadside to keep going.

I think the problem is system related and with a little time and minimal effort, the guys here (FTF and others) will have you dialed in

 

Thank you Nowhere Man and redstar for taking the time to educate me in this topic. I know this is a continuous discussion and debate on this product.
I will have to check with the builder as to what model he currently put in and I will relay redstar' s kind advice and hope he helps me solve this dilemma
Thank you forum members you are the Best!!!!!!

 

Yeah - but we used to be able to do our own testing and replacement of tubes out of the TV and radio and often fix it ourself, but not any more. Cell phones and computers are pretty much designed to quickly become obsolete and to be thrown away. But, you do have a point. Some of us are stubborn in that way.

 

I've had, along with several friends and relatives used the old Mallory "Unilite" distributor with the Hall-sensor in them. These were VERY sensitive to voltage spikes. There was a filter you could put in line to prevent damage to the Mallory distributor

 

Thanks Auto Gear. I will forward your info on to my builder I'm sure all this info will get us sorted out. I new you guys would be helpful
THANK YOU!!!!!!!

 

Frankie no longer posts opinions or solutions here or accepts PMs.

If anybody has questions about my prior posts I can be contacted at 'fdreano@earthlink.net' or through the NCRS tech forum.

 

I have had a Pertronix, first design, in my 62 340 HP for roughly 20 years. It was one of the first one made for dual point GM ignitions.
No problems, then or now.
By the way if you leave your key on you will fry your coil.

 

I've used several Pertronix units when I was restoring 55-57 Chevys. I never had a problem with them. A call to Pertronix should help get it sorted out.

 

Thank you to all of the forum members for always being such a great help.
Thanks.
Rob