Points or Electronic Distributor?

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Apr 25, 2008 | 10:55 AM

ens1967

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From: Talladega Alabama

Points or Electronic Distributor?

Should I convert my distributor from points to electronic? I am restoring a 69 and wasn't sure what the common practice is.
Thanks!

Apr 25, 2008 | 11:14 AM

Roughrider

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Joined: Mar 2007

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From: Frederick Maryland

The only thing you'll gain with converting to electronic is longer time between tune-ups and the timing shouldn't change like it will when points wear. You really won't gain any driveability or power in a stock engine...or at least not enough to notice. A well maintained ignition system, either points or electronic will perform well and be trouble free.

No reason not to do it...whichever makes you happy.

Apr 25, 2008 | 01:57 PM

CORVETTEKARL

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From: Wayne NJ

I added a Pertronix Ignitor along with their 40,000 volt Flame Thrower coil about 8 years ago. It works great. The engine runs much better. The idle got much smoother and I opened the plug gap to .045. I think it's well worth it. And you keep the original look (except for the extra wire between the distributor and coil).

Apr 25, 2008 | 02:28 PM

Solid LT1

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Joined: Dec 2003

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From: Fremont CA

Pertronix or Crane unit with a black 40000 volt coil and 7mm BLACK! plug wires. Other option is a K-66 Delco transistor ignition at about $1000 if you want to stay "original"

Apr 25, 2008 | 02:37 PM

Jud Chapin

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From: Wellington, FL

St. Jude Donor '11 thru '25

If you want to stay original, keep the points. If not, it's just a personal decision. To me, the switch would be a waste of money.

Apr 25, 2008 | 05:08 PM

I'm Batman

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From: Springfield MO

St. Jude Donor '07

Not really an improvement unless you jump up to an HEI.

Apr 25, 2008 | 05:14 PM

ens1967

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From: Talladega Alabama

Thanks to everyone for this information. I might just run with what I have for now, see how she runs out when I get my new carb, and then go from there.