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1965 coupe TI changeover

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Old 06-23-2017, 06:58 PM
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bg725
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Default 1965 coupe TI changeover

Has anyone changed from TI ignition to a new distributor with pertronix module? I have 65 coupe that has factory TI, I have the upgraded module but just don't trust it. I've had the car for 4 years and put a lot into it. Before getting the distributor rebuilt I was considering getting a new unit with pertronix. They're readily available and reasonably priced. Is it as easy as changing the distributor and wiring in the module? Ballast required?
Old 06-23-2017, 11:03 PM
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You can make this change without getting a new distributor. Remove the TI module, the TI related parts in the distributor, add the Pertronix to the distributor and add a ballast resistor and you are all set.
Old 06-24-2017, 05:23 AM
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After reading on here that widget is no more reliable then TI.
Old 06-24-2017, 07:56 AM
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bg725
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Originally Posted by warrenmj
You can make this change without getting a new distributor. Remove the TI module, the TI related parts in the distributor, add the Pertronix to the distributor and add a ballast resistor and you are all set.
Thanks. Going to get a new distributor and put this one away.
Old 06-24-2017, 09:21 AM
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dplotkin
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Originally Posted by bg725
Has anyone changed from TI ignition to a new distributor with pertronix module? I have 65 coupe that has factory TI, I have the upgraded module but just don't trust it...
Why do that? K66 works fine. If you have the original box you can put a new board in it in 20 minutes (less with no arthritis!). Then you have the car Chevrolet made. It will not let you down and another historical artifact will have one less unnecessary modification.

Dan
Old 06-24-2017, 11:09 AM
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Default To changeover

I have the upgraded module, even have a spare. Can't find any history on the car so I'm starting from scratch. Bubba did a number on the car, I've cleaned most electrical issues up and have started getting other things straight. The distributor could use a rebuild, never did one, so i was going to take the cheap way out and replace it. It has factory aluminum high rise but in bad shape so I found a nice original one and will replace it. Distributor has to come out so thought I would go with a new standard one.
Old 06-25-2017, 06:27 AM
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Originally Posted by bg725
I have the upgraded module, even have a spare. Can't find any history on the car so I'm starting from scratch. Bubba did a number on the car, I've cleaned most electrical issues up and have started getting other things straight. The distributor could use a rebuild, never did one, so i was going to take the cheap way out and replace it. It has factory aluminum high rise but in bad shape so I found a nice original one and will replace it. Distributor has to come out so thought I would go with a new standard one.
with all knowledge on the forum with wiring and such. I would just get a wire diagram and double check everything.. it is not hard, the wiring is simple back then. I replaced all my 65 TI stuff with updated pieces and it runs great. I just need to find someone to set my curve and advance in the dist for me. LARS cannot do TI so I am lost there..don't give up on the factory stuff, I had a pertronix in my 71 454 chevelle, and my 68 302 Camaro. not happy with either. I just received my dist back from LARS for the 302 and cannot wait to drop it in. troy
Old 06-25-2017, 09:39 AM
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Originally Posted by bg725
I have the upgraded module, even have a spare. Can't find any history on the car so I'm starting from scratch. Bubba did a number on the car, I've cleaned most electrical issues up and have started getting other things straight. The distributor could use a rebuild, never did one, so i was going to take the cheap way out and replace it. It has factory aluminum high rise but in bad shape so I found a nice original one and will replace it. Distributor has to come out so thought I would go with a new standard one.
what difference if you have history or not. if you have the new board from K&B in the TI box and even have a spare, and you have the wiring sorted out and the car runs and drive. what do you have to worry about? is it your handy work your scared of? the repo parts? remove your TI dist rebuild the wear parts and reinstall and go on with your life. if you want to go the cheap way out then you need to use what you already have.

also how can a intake that is on a car and runs be in bad shape that you need to replace? there is no moving parts to a intake. as long as its not cracked and leaking there is only cosmetics things.

sounds like you got money burning a hole in your pocket and you opened up a new summit book and want to go shopping. or you want something out of your car that it can't give it
Old 06-28-2017, 04:34 PM
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The intake has a cracked mount so I bought a new one. I have no idea who has done what to the car, I've had it 4 years and have done quite a bit, both myself and by shops. I'm not afraid of anything I've done and it isn't about having extra money. It's about making it a reliable driver. I got a quote to rebuild the TI distributor, $1000. No thanks. I don't know anything about them and can't find anyone local who does so I would rather not learn by trial and error. I can get a nice rebuilt tach drive with pertronix for less than half the cost to rebuild this one. I've talked to guys who have experienced a TI that just quits. I want to drive this car on a regular basis, the ignition system is the last thing I need to update. I've done everything from a new gas tank, old one was seeping, to new rear trailing arms, complete brake update, new fuel line, frame repaired, all new front end, you name it. This winter I'll rebuild the clock, get the radio working and put new carpeting in it. Even going to get the cigarette lighter working.
Old 06-28-2017, 04:50 PM
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If You'd like to follow the above suggestions I see no reason not to.. They are sound ideas.

If you want to go further and change out the ignition system then a Nice MSD Pro Billet Ball Bearing Tach drive distributor is a nice way to go. Also adding the new MSD 6Al Digital Sparky Box. This will insure accurate timing and a Nice slightly longer duration spark during crankshaft rotation.

How ever..their is a Cost associated with this mod. Your ignition System is a Good one but the new tech will improve reliability.

Others here have their own opinion pro and con when it comes to this MSD Upgrade and should be respected as we have many experts here with solid factual opinions.

It all depend on how you feel about taking a Good 50 Year old plus design and changing it when others find their TI reliable.

Sit back and enjoy the comments and suggestions and decide for your self. Our Members will lead you in the right direction.
Old 06-28-2017, 05:35 PM
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Originally Posted by bg725
The intake has a cracked mount so I bought a new one. I have no idea who has done what to the car, I've had it 4 years and have done quite a bit, both myself and by shops. I'm not afraid of anything I've done and it isn't about having extra money. It's about making it a reliable driver. I got a quote to rebuild the TI distributor, $1000. No thanks. I don't know anything about them and can't find anyone local who does so I would rather not learn by trial and error. I can get a nice rebuilt tach drive with pertronix for less than half the cost to rebuild this one. I've talked to guys who have experienced a TI that just quits. I want to drive this car on a regular basis, the ignition system is the last thing I need to update. I've done everything from a new gas tank, old one was seeping, to new rear trailing arms, complete brake update, new fuel line, frame repaired, all new front end, you name it. This winter I'll rebuild the clock, get the radio working and put new carpeting in it. Even going to get the cigarette lighter working.

you can rebuild a TI distributor cheaper then 1000 bucks. there is no need to replace the magnet and pick up unless your car doesn't run now. I have more faith in TI or points then I do pertronix but that is just me.
Old 06-29-2017, 12:36 AM
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Corvette Central sells their rebuilt BB TI Dist. for just over $900.00.

I like the advice Viet Nam Vett gave you as well as some of the others.

A good running TI even if you think bubba did it is still worth it because it's functional as mentioned and you don't have to spend any more out of pocket money.

Plus on the forum in the search engine you can find a ton of articles on how to troubleshoot and rebuild your TI dist. If already as you say you've worked out many of the problem details with your ride I would stay with TI. It is a fairly simple system to learn. Parts are easy to replace. Go here if you haven't already - http://www.tispecialty.com.

Having said that - for the extra cost to go all MSD may be worth it for you as Viet Nam Vett opined.

To take your TI and turn it into a 'pertronics' or whatever other similar system is a step down from what you already have I believe. Get on the Search function - if you can't find your answers there - just bring them back here.

Good Luck

65-StingRay
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Old 06-29-2017, 11:01 AM
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Originally Posted by 65-StingRay
Corvette Central sells their rebuilt BB TI Dist. for just over $900.00.

I like the advice Viet Nam Vett gave you as well as some of the others.

A good running TI even if you think bubba did it is still worth it because it's functional as mentioned and you don't have to spend any more out of pocket money.

Plus on the forum in the search engine you can find a ton of articles on how to troubleshoot and rebuild your TI dist. If already as you say you've worked out many of the problem details with your ride I would stay with TI. It is a fairly simple system to learn. Parts are easy to replace. Go here if you haven't already - http://www.tispecialty.com.

Having said that - for the extra cost to go all MSD may be worth it for you as Viet Nam Vett opined.

To take your TI and turn it into a 'pertronics' or whatever other similar system is a step down from what you already have I believe. Get on the Search function - if you can't find your answers there - just bring them back here.

Good Luck

65-StingRay
Wayne
To add to 65 SyingRay in regards to MSD here is a Link to their Midyear Tach drive with Vac Can.. The price shown is list and can be found at Major suppliers much cheaper . Also MSD Is on Ebay selling refurbished units when available that are like brand new with Full Factory warranty's at half the price....

https://www.msdperformance.com/produ...let/parts/8572

A little research can yield you a Lower price.

Also Here is the New MSD Digital 6AL Spaky box that works with the MSD Distributor...It now has a Quick disconnect at the box. Again Search for the best price..The one I belive shon is without the built in limiter... (6A) The L on the end would have an adjustable limiter built in.... (Mo Money)

https://www.msdperformance.com/produ...eet/parts/6201

With Adjustable limiter....
https://www.msdperformance.com/produ...eet/parts/6425

Last edited by Viet Nam Vett; 06-29-2017 at 11:06 AM.

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