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we just bought a 71 sting ray.it was in the process of being redone.the motor is a later model 454.what or can we use a later model distributor,and still hook the tach up to it ? or do i need to look into a different theory.
The Corvette models didn't change over to electronic tachometers until the 1975 model. If you use a mechanical tach drive distributor before this year, you should be alright.
You can purchase aftermarket HEI distributors with mechanical tach drives on them. Check some Corvette parts suppliers. If you want to stay 'original', you will have to go with the points distributor or find an early [rare and expensive] TI system.
I had Lars (forum member) rebuild my original points distributor. When I got it back from him, it looked like brand new and the car runs great now.
If you do go with an HEI unit, you will need to run a new 12 volt power wire to it. On my Nova, I ran it from one of the spare terminals on the fuse block.
From: At my Bar drinking and wrenching in Lafayette Colorado
Any pre-75 Corvette tach drive distributor, whether small block or big block, will work perfectly. You don't need HEI for outstanding performance and reliability, so stick with a standard points-type distributor that would be stock for your year.
Lars
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