I'd be interested in anyone's recommendations for converting the points/condenser in my '72 350 small block to an electronic ignition system. I'd like to keep the mechanical tach. In looking through Eckler's catalogue I see several options including the Mallory Unilite. No mention whether this still supports the mech tach but I suspect it does since it's only a component replacement - the distributor stays put during installation.

There's also complete HEI Distributor replacements which are pretty expensive. Worth the money?

Finally, when I do this, I'm leaning towards also installing a hi-output coil. Would like to hear opinions on this and product recommendations.

Thanks!

 

I'm hearing great things about the new Crane HR-i.
http://cranecams.com/index.php?show=...lvl=5&prt=1973
I'm running an older Crane ignition and have had no problems, but this new system looks better yet. Just my opinion.....

 

Yep, I like the Crane too. I've put 2 in so far and 1 replaced a Pertronics conversion, with better top-end performance.

 

I have a full MSD ignition, including their Pro Billet tach drive distributor. No issues with it after 2 years. It did make a notable difference in how much easier it started, and how much smoother it idled.

 

Thanks Big G and Goinbroke.

Are you talking about the points conversion or complete distributor?

 

Conversion

 

I took the stock dist and added a Crane HI6 ignition box. The is very much like the MSD box but no pills for the rev limiter. I use a set of heavy duty ponts to fire the unit, it bacically is an on/off switch. No current goes through the points so they do not wear out. I run mine to 6500 all the time and have the rev limiter set to 7000 rm and have bounced it off the limiter many times. It is a good system that cost me far less than a complete MSD setup.

 

I was also looking at the points conversion. Then I saw this on Ebay and it's worked great for me! HEI with mechanical tach drive for $250. Kept my original distributor of course.

Link wasn't working for me. Check out ebay number 8027157269 by factorydirectraceparts

Ken

 

i used a msd distributor, msd coil, and msd 6 control box for my 73. i bought the msd distributor that uses the mechanical tach drive.

easy to set up.

 

I sold about 20 of the HEI w/ tach drive ... 'till my low$ supplies dried up. They're apparently imported but right nice pieces. When I last checked Fall 2005 ... Motorville had 'em for under $160 ... 1-888-463-0482.

 

My MSD setup is AWESOME!!!

 

What is your impression of the Pertronics conversion?
I've had this recommended to me.

 

I have the Crane XR-I on the wifes 1973 L82.

Easy install, and doesn't use a notched "reluctor wheel". So it's easy to go back - if something fails.

 

I won't use the Pertronics anymore. I will use the Crane units until they let me down.

 

I put the Pertronics in my 74, very easy to do and works great

 

Ditto....put Pertronix in my 72 for 5 yrs with no problems. Started and ran smoother

 

I ran the Mallory conversion for several years. No problems.

BigBlockk

Later.....

 

Those are all good recomendations, but try this one... I have in my 68 a one wire conversion distributer from DUI performance distributers. This is a mechanical tach drive ( with the 90 degree adaptor) HEI conversion unit. call them up, give them your engine specs and they will custom tune it and send it to your house. great horsepower, easy install, one wire. the only downside is i can't use the stock chrome distributor dress up kit as the HEI set up is to large.. This is the second time i have used them, and they are a verry good supplier. thier tech guys are all pretty straightand on the level, and their service and support is on the money. I also put one in my 67 camaro before the i bought the vette. As far as performance goes, withthe HEI in place i am seeing easier starts, smoother idle, and definately more PUNCH when I punch it though i havent hit the Dyno, their HP claims are legitimate

let me know if you want some more details.

BYE the way the mech tach drive will increase the cost of the distributer i.e $500 with the mech tach vs $300 without

well worth it and my tach works too

As far as the pertronix upgrade goes, I have used it with mixed resutls. when it worked it worked fine, but what they dont tell you is sometimes, dependign on the car, you have to put in a resistor, or resistor block in the circuit or you can blow the ignition module. i went throught this twice before i went with the DUI set up

 

I am using Craine XRi and like it.