Al T

As part of the resurrection of my ‘71 LS-5 coupe, I’m in the process of trying to clean up a mess of an engine compartment and I’d like to get rid of the MSD ignition box and coil........ as well as freeing up the space for the soon to be installed (when I get one) wiper door vacuum canister. Can I use this MSD distributor with a conventional coil while I look for a OEM distributor?

Thanks in advance.

Allan

TimAT

Sort of. The distributor you have is a magnetic pickup. That sends the signal to the MSD box that it's time to fire the coil. The MSD box I don't think really cares what coil it fires, as long as it sees a coil out there. But also knowing how MSD boxes can be a little finicky, it may not last too long. You'll need to look up the specs on the box and see if there's anything on how much load the coil should have.
There is a spot on the firewall to the left of the distributor you can mount that coil too- At least there is on a 69.

Al T

I really just want to get rid of the entire MSD system. The original ignition system worked just fine and I’d like to put it back to that.
Maybe someone has a rebuilt/good condition distributor and correct coil they’d like to trade for the entire MSD system? Engine was May 21, 71 assembly.

TimAT

Send a PM to Big2Bird- he may be able to help you.

blue427

If you're going back to a point set up just make sure your resistance wire is there and the proper length.

Al T

Did a ‘71have a ballast resistor or wire?

BLUE1972

I would go with a stock distributor and an electric breaker less conversion. The conversions fit into the cap and looks stock.

The car runs better and holds the tune up much longer.

Jegs, electric limited and others sell them.

TimAT

71 had a resistor wire built into the engine harness. It's possible that it may still be in the harness- I suspect most people just clipped it off where it breaks out of the harness and ran a new wire from inside.

terrys6t8roadster

Some one is selling a BBC vette dist in the parts for sale, yesterday or the day before. T

Al T

Thanks for the heads up, but I was actually able to find a distributor from a fellow member which I believe is date code correct. Thanks Dan!!!
May 5, 1971 distributor for a May 21, 1971 engine assembly date?

I’m going to get the car running with the existing system and then remove all the MSD components and install the OEM ignition. I’ll list the complete MSD set up with wires in the for sale section when I get that done.