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#1 |
Registered User
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: San Antonio, TX
Posts: 55
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HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
OK, so yesterday, after determining just what the heck kind of engine I've got in The Winter Project, I did a lot of reading, and it seems to be the general consensus that swapping out the original distributor (points-type) for an HEI unit of some sort is a smart thing to do. There's an excellent thread on the actual doing of the replacement that I've bookmarked, so I feel pretty well covered from that end.
However, I'm interested in recommendations on aftermarket suppliers for the HEI itself, rather than a rebuild or swap-over. I'm quite unsure on just where I'm going with this silly thing, but I know I want reliability over performance (today, anyway, and it is an I-6.) I know I'd like some kind of warranty, even if it's only 90 days, too. So, if you've done this replacement using an aftermarket kit, I'd appreciate knowing how you feel about the brand you bought, and what you might do different if you did it again.
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1978 Silverado Big 10 - "The River Runner" 1969 GMC C/10 - "The 2008-09 Winter Project" |
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#2 |
Registered User
Join Date: Jun 2002
Location: Fort Worth, TX
Posts: 920
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
Personally, I used the petronix kit to eliminate the points. Put it in about 3 years or so ago and haven't had a problem at all. Very easy install as well. Just a suggestion.
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#3 |
Out of the carpool lane.
Join Date: Jan 2000
Location: Clark Co, WA
Posts: 5,673
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
I'd recommend just going to a jy and getting the cheapest HEI you can, replacing the module, stab it in, and go! You can spend $120 or more on a brand new distributor and module or you can spend 1/2 that or less and get the exact same performance. Just my .02
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1968 C-10 SWB, 5.7 Vortec/700R4/3.73 posi, Torch Red 1968 Camaro, 250/Powerglide, all original (No, I'm not gonna drop a 350 in it!...Jeez!) 2000 Honda VFR in the faster yellow! 2008 Husqvarna TE-610 1967 C-10 SWB 'Six Appeal'-Gone but not forgotten... |
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#4 |
Junior Member
Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: Southeast Missouri
Posts: 2,436
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
Like you I finally figured out what engine I have in my '67 short stepper.
I was told it was a 292 out of newer than '68 truck. After research and the help members of this board I have determined it is 250 out of '72 Chevelle. It has a stock HEI out of a l6 about '78 vintage and runs great. Danny
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'67 Chevy C-20 short stepper - build complete, 454/SM-465. '75 C-30 Single Cab DRW-350 small block/NP-435. '77 GMC-6500 Dump Truck, 427 Tall Deck. '92 GMC K-3500 Duallie, 454/4L80E. |
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#5 |
Cantankerous Geezer
Join Date: Aug 2002
Location: Bel Aire, KS
Posts: 6,264
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
HEI is the only way to fly. The only drawback is the big cap. Here is a link to a rebuild for a decent price. The seller is well-respected and a big supporter of inliners.org
http://www.stoveboltengineco.com/aca...?productid=125 I will recommend going with an external coil, such as the MSD Blaster 2 or one specifically made for the HEI.
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Fred There is no such thing as too much cam...just not enough engine. ![]() |
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#6 |
Out of the carpool lane.
Join Date: Jan 2000
Location: Clark Co, WA
Posts: 5,673
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
That looks like a good deal except you'll be able to spend the same amount at any parts store in your neighborhood and get the same thing. Just get an HEI from a '73-'78 C-10, Nova, Camaro, Chevelle, etc with a 250.
The big cap (coil in cap design) is only a drawback if you plan on going with A/C. Otherwise there are absolutely no problems with it, in fact it'll clean up the underhood appearance of your engine.
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1968 C-10 SWB, 5.7 Vortec/700R4/3.73 posi, Torch Red 1968 Camaro, 250/Powerglide, all original (No, I'm not gonna drop a 350 in it!...Jeez!) 2000 Honda VFR in the faster yellow! 2008 Husqvarna TE-610 1967 C-10 SWB 'Six Appeal'-Gone but not forgotten... |
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#7 |
Too Dumb To Know Better
Join Date: Nov 2005
Location: Texas
Posts: 882
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
Yep, parts board or ebay, change the cap, rotor and get new wires and you're done. Don't forget to run the new wire.
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#8 |
I am a Referee of life.
Join Date: Jun 2000
Location: Greensboro N.C.
Posts: 13,993
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
I did cap,rotor and wires.I bought it from a JY for $25.00 and put it in in about 30 min.I spent more time finding and getting that danged terminal end for the terminal block than all the rest of it put together.I didn't change the module though I would have.I just thought I would stick it in a see what happened before I made a parts run.It fired up better than with the points and I timed it.It hasn't given a bit of trouble or missed any so I just ran it.
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The 47-present Chevrolet and GMC Truck Message Board Network,it's owners,moderators,members,and associates of any type should not be held responsible for my opinion. You can't fix stupid,not even with duct tape. "My appearance is due to the fact that "GOD" does punish you for having too much fun!" Barrett-Jackson has perfected alchemy,they make rust into gold! "You can lead a horse to water but you can't saddle a duck" "Cleverly disguised as a 'Responsible Adult' "Sometimes your Knight in shining armor is just a retard in tinfoil" |
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#9 |
Out of the carpool lane.
Join Date: Jan 2000
Location: Clark Co, WA
Posts: 5,673
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
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__________________
1968 C-10 SWB, 5.7 Vortec/700R4/3.73 posi, Torch Red 1968 Camaro, 250/Powerglide, all original (No, I'm not gonna drop a 350 in it!...Jeez!) 2000 Honda VFR in the faster yellow! 2008 Husqvarna TE-610 1967 C-10 SWB 'Six Appeal'-Gone but not forgotten... |
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#10 |
Registered User
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: San Antonio, TX
Posts: 55
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
Great advice, folks, and much appreciated. I have a couple of questions:
- "Don't forget to run the new wire." I'm guessing that means new wire for everything distributor-related? What gauge is recommended? I'll definitely be re-reading the thread linked above for hints and tips. I know I need new spark plug wires, as well, right? - "change the module" I've got an HEI with an internal coil in my 78, and don't remember a module? Maybe that's because it was already there somewhere and I just didn't know? So, what module, and where? As you might guess, I'm a complete dolt and just getting my feet wet with stuff I've always wanted to do, but never had time for.
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1978 Silverado Big 10 - "The River Runner" 1969 GMC C/10 - "The 2008-09 Winter Project" |
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#11 |
Registered User
Join Date: Sep 2005
Location: Smith Mountain Lake Virginia
Posts: 1,537
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
regap the plugs too... I went to .045 I believe.
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"A cat will almost always blink when hit between the eyes with a ball peen hammer" (you don't always have to state the obvious) Wear your PPE! You can eat with false teeth but you can't see with a false eye. 1959 Studebaker Silverhawk 350/400 1972 C10 L6 3OTT 2005 F350 - Built - whew! |
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#12 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Nanaimo B.C.
Posts: 604
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
I have tried to do this and the HEI cap is too big and will not rotate once it is installed, I recomend a putronics points replacement to get the same results and less trouble with the pulling and reinstalling of the disributores. the 292 has a taller lifter cover area that makes the motor taller and this is what causes this problem
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I was hooked on these trucks since 1982 when I drove my budys fathers 1968 Custum GMC 396 automatic dana 60 rear with a power lock diff what a ride more fun then we will we can ever tell!! Last edited by Willys47; 10-06-2008 at 09:57 AM. |
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#13 |
Registered User
![]() Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: tennessee
Posts: 159
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
I got a Distrb. out of a 70's model truck, change the cap, rotor, model, coil, and wires.Worked great with about .045 gap on plugs. Really woke the motor up
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#14 | |
Out of the carpool lane.
Join Date: Jan 2000
Location: Clark Co, WA
Posts: 5,673
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
Quote:
__________________
1968 C-10 SWB, 5.7 Vortec/700R4/3.73 posi, Torch Red 1968 Camaro, 250/Powerglide, all original (No, I'm not gonna drop a 350 in it!...Jeez!) 2000 Honda VFR in the faster yellow! 2008 Husqvarna TE-610 1967 C-10 SWB 'Six Appeal'-Gone but not forgotten... |
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#15 | |
Out of the carpool lane.
Join Date: Jan 2000
Location: Clark Co, WA
Posts: 5,673
|
Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
Quote:
__________________
1968 C-10 SWB, 5.7 Vortec/700R4/3.73 posi, Torch Red 1968 Camaro, 250/Powerglide, all original (No, I'm not gonna drop a 350 in it!...Jeez!) 2000 Honda VFR in the faster yellow! 2008 Husqvarna TE-610 1967 C-10 SWB 'Six Appeal'-Gone but not forgotten... |
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#16 |
Registered User
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: San Antonio, TX
Posts: 55
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
maybe you should read up alot more before tackling this
No question...that's what I'm doing here.
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1978 Silverado Big 10 - "The River Runner" 1969 GMC C/10 - "The 2008-09 Winter Project" |
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#17 |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Northern AZ
Posts: 7,271
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
The 292 is different than the 250 and I think the other poster meant the 292 and big cap hei interfere? A good used hei is a great way to help that 292 feel its oats, and the 292 is a prime hot rod motor in the world of L6's. If you just plan to run it, do a JY swap and get a hei hop up kit from summit, they sell the cap/rotor and module all in one for a decent price, some kits come with a new coil as well.
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#18 |
Registered User
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: Dallas
Posts: 504
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
I believe willys47 may be talking about the cap hotting the side of the engine, mine is very close and rubs the fuel line a little and I think if was installed "just right" using the big cap, it could be positioned to where the port for the wires are right next to the engine preventing it from rotating.
There are actually two stock caps available, the standard style with the coil in the cap, and there is another style (presumably for engines with AC like mine). Where the coil is outside the cap. (Yes is it electronic ignition). I just got it at the regular auto parts store. You will need to remove the coil and mount it to the side of the engine. I found a bracket at a junkyard but you can make one too. LITTLE CAP: ![]() BIG CAP:
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_______________ Thomas '78 Silverado '74 Monte Carlo '47 Teardrop Trailer East Texas Classics Local Club Last edited by 2bits; 10-06-2008 at 04:41 PM. |
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#19 | |
Registered User
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Nanaimo B.C.
Posts: 604
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
Quote:
__________________
I was hooked on these trucks since 1982 when I drove my budys fathers 1968 Custum GMC 396 automatic dana 60 rear with a power lock diff what a ride more fun then we will we can ever tell!! |
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#20 |
Registered User
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: San Antonio, TX
Posts: 55
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
Well, yall have given me plenty to start thinking about. I appreciate all the advice, and I'm definitely willing to listen to more.
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1978 Silverado Big 10 - "The River Runner" 1969 GMC C/10 - "The 2008-09 Winter Project" |
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#21 |
Registered User
![]() Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Hillsboro Oregon
Posts: 6,449
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
Just got my 6cyl HEI in the mail today
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#22 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Tucson, AZ USA
Posts: 7,286
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
I'm still running points on my 292 and happy with it [and a Mallory Voltmaster coil], but I do have a Pertronix Ignitor II kit standing by. Not knocking HEI, I have that on the V8 350 in my other truck, a '71 Jimmy.
I have as yet to acquire an L6 HEI for the '68 Stepside. One note on HEI install: you must disconnect the yellow wire from the coil and replace it with a 10 gauge wire going from the terminal block IGN UNFUSED to the positive terminal on the HEI cap. The old yellow wire is coupled to a heat -reactive white/purple/orange wire that drops voltage to the coil when it heats up. This helps points from burning out -- going from 12VDC to 9 - 7 Volts, but is very bad for the HEI module. That system must have a full 12 volts at all times when running, or you burn up the module.
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Every 25 years I like to rebuild that 292, whether it needs it or not. Last edited by '68OrangeSunshine; 10-07-2008 at 06:00 AM. |
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#23 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: Portland, Oregon
Posts: 901
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
Missing from all the above discussion------- The advance curve for most engines designed for HEI can be quite different than your engine.... By all means, have the HEI weights and springs adjusted to match the ignition curve for the engine that the HEI will be installed on. Shops that have a distributor machine will match the curve for your engine...This will then give maximum performance and fuel economy.
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'71 GMC;fleetside;PB/PS/AC/CC/402 Eng./Custom Paint/110,000act miles/3 fuel tanks(52gal). Last edited by GMC Jim; 10-07-2008 at 06:36 AM. |
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#24 | |
Registered User
![]() Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: Hillsboro Oregon
Posts: 6,449
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
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#25 |
Senior Member
![]() Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: Portland, Oregon
Posts: 901
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Re: HEI Replacement on 69-ish 292
Frizzle; I have heard about the Crane kits used for setting the centrifugal advance curve...However, I don't see how one can get the proper curve for the higher RPM's. For instance the specs on a 1971 402 engine are in partial: 16 degrees @ 2400 engine RPM and 30 degrees at 4400 engine RPM. Your engine would be literally screaming at that RPM !!!...I suppose one could plot the curve on graph paper and compute the degrees for the RPM's between 2400 and 4400.
Also, one will need an accurate tach and a vacuum gauge to complete the advance settings of centrifugal and vacuum advance...
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'71 GMC;fleetside;PB/PS/AC/CC/402 Eng./Custom Paint/110,000act miles/3 fuel tanks(52gal). Last edited by GMC Jim; 10-08-2008 at 05:09 AM. |
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