72 stock SB, thinking of converting to HEI. I have read on the forum before guys talking of the dragonfire unit and saw this one. With this I would also have to get new wires and change plug gap from .035 to .045 to .055 correct? Is that the jist of the install? Or maybe I should just stay with the stock unit and learn more about points! After 5 years into the restor and finally just getting the car back from paint I really want to get to drive it soon!


Thanks in advance,

Sully

 

Why dont you just install a Petronix or Mallory points replacement and not change the distributor?

 

The Ignitor III is a quick and easy installation.

 

The Petronix conversion is the way to go. It's quick and simple to do, and you won't have to convert to an electronic tach.

 

I have got one of those bargain HEI distributor and it works ok for now anyway.
The cap and rotor are thinner plastic than Delco. The module is obviously cheaper. To be honest I think there are better options out there to look at.

 

If you don't have a "performance" engine and don't need more spark power, why change anything at all? The only thing you need for a 'points' system is a dwell meter. If that is a problem, install a Pertronix system meant for use with your car. Most electronic systems require constant 12vdc power going to them. The coil power wire on yours is a resistance wire which should only be used to power electronic ignition systems that specifically instruct you to use the existing power wire for hookup. All others require you to run a new dedicated wire from the fuse block so that full 12vdc is sourced.

I suggested Pertronix because it fits into the stock distributor and is a simple wiring job. When done, it looks just like a stock configuration, so you won't have problems fitting all the shielding components back on to a [larger] HEI distributor.

The only reason for going electronic is that you won't have to change points & condenser any more.

P.S. If you go electronic which uses a full 12vdc power source, you will also need to replace the stock coil...it is meant for use with the resistance wire only.

 

If you don't mind spending a little more, this IMHO is the best of the points replacement systems - http://www.breakerless.com

Plus, there is only one wire going to the coil - so unless you take off the distributor cap, there is no way to tell you are not using points.

 

The po of my 71 poped for a hei tach drive dist.Sofar so good.If it had the original I would just use the conversion kit.I would if I had the original dist.

 

The HEI is a good change and everything is located in the distributor....simple change....no need to change the plug gap........035 is correct........those wide gaps 45-80 are a result of GM trying to meet emission standards and they finally gave up....performance is the 35 figure