C3 Tech/Performance V8 Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine, Basic Tech and Maintenance for the C3 Corvette
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Old Dec 20, 2014 | 07:26 AM
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Default Ignition/HP

The local shop that recently installed my engine chatted me up to install an upgraded ignition system in my 80. told me that i would get a better feel sound and power. i dug it. gonna charge me 1k. whats the deal with this type of upgrade.
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Old Dec 20, 2014 | 07:40 AM
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The deal is you're a grand lighter and their bank account much fatter.

The hype on ignitions is just that...hype. Super ignitions are fine for highly modified engines that will be driven at high rpm's, but aren't cost effective on a well maintained street engine. It's hard to beat the HEI system...it can be tweaked for better performance but for the street and normal use it will run with the best of them.
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Old Dec 20, 2014 | 08:19 AM
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I like my 1968 Coil and Points distributer. The wires might need replacing...
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Old Dec 20, 2014 | 08:56 AM
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I'll do it for $950!
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Old Dec 20, 2014 | 09:22 AM
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1000!! What are they putting on. That is robbing you. Seriously the HEI for a stock to mild build is more ignition that you will ever need. They are taking you for a ride.
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Old Dec 20, 2014 | 10:10 AM
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Give us a hint: What is the brand-name of the equipment that they want to install....
some of that "stuff" does cost $1,000....
on an '80, you could DIY/change the rocker arm ratio in 2 hours with a 5/8" socket-ratchet for $200 and probably get an equal amount or better of performance increase.
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Old Dec 20, 2014 | 10:19 AM
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This a common myth. Does a BBQ grill a steak faster depending on how the flame was lit? The spark either lights the fuel and air, or it doesn't. The stock system works just fine.

Edit: You were smart for asking here before buying. There's dozens of guys that didn't.

Last edited by Mike Ward; Dec 20, 2014 at 10:22 AM.
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Old Dec 20, 2014 | 10:30 AM
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Absolute total waste of money. Glad you didn't get "soaked".
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Old Dec 20, 2014 | 07:22 PM
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Originally Posted by doorgunner
Give us a hint: What is the brand-name of the equipment that they want to install....
some of that "stuff" does cost $1,000....
on an '80, you could DIY/change the rocker arm ratio in 2 hours with a 5/8" socket-ratchet for $200 and probably get an equal amount or better of performance increase.
hahaa! Guy says MSD . i checked out the set online and its only $200 so i was confused all around.
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Old Dec 20, 2014 | 07:23 PM
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Originally Posted by Mike Ward
This a common myth. Does a BBQ grill a steak faster depending on how the flame was lit? The spark either lights the fuel and air, or it doesn't. The stock system works just fine.

Edit: You were smart for asking here before buying. There's dozens of guys that didn't.

I've been screwed by some wild actors in this town (Austin,Tx) involving this car. DIY and research are numero uno before I shell out any cash
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