Electronic ignition upgrade?
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 128
Likes: 7
From: Oak Point ,TX
Electronic ignition upgrade?
Considering upgrading/modernizing elimination the points system. There is Pertronics, MSM, or simply leaving points in there. Not having any issues. Concerned that quality points kits may lose manufactured quality theyce had. For example, I looked at Rock Auto for a quick list and they show 7-8 choices. Not sure what is best. So considering a set it and forget it system Like Pertronics or MSM. Are there preferences (features/benefits) of one versus the other. Two cars a 1972 small block and a 1970 Big Block, both have original engines and neither engine has been modified. Points, Pertronics, or MSM, that is the question? Thanks
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2020
Posts: 1,566
Likes: 574
From: Wisconsin
Add HEI to your set it and forget it list.
Some bemoan the fact that HEI works until it doesn't. I actually like the fact that it either works or it doesn't. No in between futzing around with settings.
Some will say points are easier to deal with on the side of the road. Granted, but HEI can be too. Just carry a spare module and coil like you would carry a spare points and condenser. In either case a screwdriver gets you on your way in minutes.
Some bemoan the fact that HEI works until it doesn't. I actually like the fact that it either works or it doesn't. No in between futzing around with settings.
Some will say points are easier to deal with on the side of the road. Granted, but HEI can be too. Just carry a spare module and coil like you would carry a spare points and condenser. In either case a screwdriver gets you on your way in minutes.
Drifting
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 1,263
Likes: 188
From: Wabasha Mn
Considering upgrading/modernizing elimination the points system. There is Pertronics, MSM, or simply leaving points in there. Not having any issues. Concerned that quality points kits may lose manufactured quality theyce had. For example, I looked at Rock Auto for a quick list and they show 7-8 choices. Not sure what is best. So considering a set it and forget it system Like Pertronics or MSM. Are there preferences (features/benefits) of one versus the other. Two cars a 1972 small block and a 1970 Big Block, both have original engines and neither engine has been modified. Points, Pertronics, or MSM, that is the question? Thanks
Burning Brakes
Joined: Apr 2020
Posts: 788
Likes: 418
From: Western NY
post 4 explains it pretty good. it's not a big deal to carry a extra module and coil. i ran a Allison XR700 points conversion for 30 years without any problems. i eventually got the MSD corvette dist because of the easier adjustability of the mechanical advance. the same can be done with a points dist with only a little more effort. here is the way i look at the point conversion kits when it comes to the "works until it doesn't" issue. if they fail there is a 99.967% you are calling a tow truck. pretty much no parts store is going to have replacement parts. almost all parts stores will have points or HEI parts and points rarley if ever fail anyway.
Pat
Pat
Tech Contributor
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 14,375
Likes: 6,375
From: At my Bar drinking and wrenching in Lafayette Colorado
Upgrade your stock distributor with a good set of points (CS786) with RR175 condenser. Put a proper curve and tune on it, and you will not be able to find a better ignition system that produces more power or provides better reliability.
I've posted this several times, but here is a link to my testing with Hot Rod Magazine regarding ignition systems:
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...t-and-ign.html
Lars
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From: Im not allowed to tell you
2020 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
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Went to the breaker less system and never had an issue. https://www.lectriclimited.com/break...nversion-86383 Its the same as this one https://www.summitracing.com/parts/aww-38131
Upgraded to MSD and it works great and has a rev limiter
Upgraded to MSD and it works great and has a rev limiter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 788
Likes: 100
From: Indianapolis IN
Not sure how you could do it better than brass contacts within the cap n rotor - but a set can be had for under $12 @ Rockauto. May not be available in a choice of colors, and hopefully they can't kill quality in something so simple. I always used Accel.
Tech Contributor
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 14,375
Likes: 6,375
From: At my Bar drinking and wrenching in Lafayette Colorado
For cap, if you don't mind it being tan instead of brown, use the NAPA/Echlin RR1650 High Performance cap. If you want a black cap, use RR165. It still has brass contacts rather than the cheap aluminum but is slightly lighter than the RR1650 - more like the OEM stock cap.
Lars