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From: Graceland in a Not Correctly Restored Stingray
True, that a well tuned linear advance profile (mechanical or otherwise) is going to be right more often than a broken clock, but cylinder pressures don't necessarily have a linear relationship to RPM or operating conditions. So, IMHO it follows that a curvilinear advance profile isn't a "limitation", rather such tuning flexibility should be viewed as somewhat of an advantage. Anyway, while I definitely consider programmable ignition systems a huge leap forward, my ultimate plan is put an EFI box (most likely to be Holley's Terminator) in control. My $.02
The Mallory Max-Fire is locked out from the start or never had mech advance. I also have the msd programmable box, I just wanted to try a self contained unit. The msd is more programmable but with a dist it cost more than the Max-Fire(at least on discount). MSD has made a fortune selling pieces like rpm chips or add-ons, when they could make a nice all-in-one if they wanted. Auto performance manufacturers use old out dated tech and are long over due for an upgrade(even taking account of the new digital boxes)
How can that be a problem? The Mallory dist does not come with any mechanical advance, IE weights, springs or bushings. Because it's digital and programmable it doesn't need those parts.
In order to use a digital MSD programmable BOX you have to remove those parts from a MSD mechanical distributor to convert it or buy a locked from MSD dist.
Possibly wont interest many here as it is a "Pommie" device but I used this unit, see pic because I wanted to retain the stock distributor and is not too conspicuous (but I have removed the vac can as not needed). Unit seems to work okay, is compact (about the size of a cigarette pack) and will run with either points or electronic actuation. Dist is locked on full advance and the timing set with whatever static figure you require. The Amethyst unit then controls both the ignition advance electronically and the vac advance by inbuilt MAP sensor. So, in my case I have 10 deg static plus 24 deg "centrifugal" = max advance 34 deg.
You also get an inbuilt immobilizer feature as well as a rev limiter one.
From: Some days your the dog and some days your the hydrant.
Royal Canadian Navy
Amethyst ignition unit looks like a very nice and has more functionality than the Mallory unit being discussed. Oh, it has USB 2.0. That's a win right there!!!
34 total, you using vortex heads? If not you prob should try 36-38, assuming your timing pointer is correct, otherwise give it what it likes.
I've seen that UK ignition box before when looking up something. Looks nice and compact, but..........
Hi, no Vortex heads fitted, seems happy enough at 34 deg on our fuel, I had it at 36 before but didn't seem to make it go any better, I was advised to back it off a bit to be on the safe side.
If anyone is considering the Mallory MaxFire, note that it has a serial port for programming. Most laptops don't have this port and you need a USB-serial adapter. The MaxFire is an old design, the software has some bugs and Mallory doesn't support it. I worked with the design engineer to resolve software and adapter issues, but finally gave up and now use the preprogrammed curves.
If anyone is considering the Mallory MaxFire, note that it has a serial port for programming. Most laptops don't have this port and you need a USB-serial adapter. The MaxFire is an old design, the software has some bugs and Mallory doesn't support it. I worked with the design engineer to resolve software and adapter issues, but finally gave up and now use the preprogrammed curves.
And the MSD 6530 also has a serial port! What bonehead puts a serial port on anything today?
The Amethyst looks modern. How do the Brits manage to do it, but SEMA can't?
I am using a Daytona Sensors programmable ignition box with a Crane locked out distributor. Love the optical trigger of the Crane, and my engine builder uses a Daytona Sensors box on his Dyno and highly recommended it. I love this setup compared to my MSD stuff.
Bill
Last edited by 69ttop502; Jun 24, 2016 at 05:33 PM.
I am using a Daytona Sensors programmable ignition box with a Crane locked out distributor. Love the optical trigger of the Crane, and my engine builder uses a Daytona Sensors box on his Dyno and highly recommended it. I love this setup compared to my MSD stuff.
Bill
Thanks for sharing, I had never heard of Daytona Sensors. Their TSC-1 looks great. I'm tempted to lock out my Mallory MaxFire and try it.
