Distributor question

[BBrendal]

Kind of a stupid question and I think I already know the answer but ...

Will I be able to remove a point type GM distributor and replace it with a GM HEI without removing the motor? This is on a 72 Blazer 4X4 with a 350 engine and auto trans. I know they fit in there but I put mine in as I installed the motor. Cant remember intalling an HEI with the motor in the truck.

[truckster]

I have one in mine. It's tight, but it works.

[BBrendal]

Originally Posted by truckster

I have one in mine. It's tight, but it works.

I know it is tight but did you do the swap with the motor in the truck?

[asolde]

My 69 Blazer had a big ole GM HEI distributor in it and I took it out and replaced it with a pertronix distributor with the engine install. There's enough room to do it with no problem.

[D.PASSMORE]

Yeah, You will have to install with cap off. But try and get your oil pump shaft where you want it before you drop it in the hole. Its a PIA to keeping taking out and dropping back in. And, don't forget have a dedicated 12v power wire for the source. The OE resistor wire want cut it for constant 12 VDC.

[Bentblazer]

Originally Posted by asolde

My 69 Blazer had a big ole GM HEI distributor in it and I took it out and replaced it with a pertronix distributor with the engine install. There's enough room to do it with no problem.

Is that the one that is smaller than the GM, that gives you more clearance around the firewall? I was thinking about changing to that, wasn't sure if that was the correct one.

[D.PASSMORE]

Here is a good read:
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=620981

[briank]

You get the 2nd 72 painted yet?

[pound41]

Mallory Unilite is same size as stock plenty of room to do what you want. Has the small stock style cap. I have them in all 3 of mine

[truckster]

Originally Posted by BBrendal

I know it is tight but did you do the swap with the motor in the truck?

Sorry, I was at work. Yes, I installed it with the motor in the truck. I had to remove the distributor cap, as someone else said, and it was kind of a pain getting it lined up with the tight space, but it worked. I had to re-route my distributor wires after a while because I discovered one was touching a body bolt that comes through from the firewall side and it had shorted out. After I did that, I had no problem.

And remember the HEI needs 12v; the points distributor uses a resistor in line.

You'll really like the difference the HEI makes. Quicker starts and a whole lot less hassle.

[asolde]

Originally Posted by Bentblazer

Is that the one that is smaller than the GM, that gives you more clearance around the firewall? I was thinking about changing to that, wasn't sure if that was the correct one.

Yes it has a factory look with HEI. You can buy it as a kit with the plug wires cut to the proper length. Comes with a coil. A very good system in my opinion
http://www.pertronix.com/

[BBrendal]

Thanks for the input guys! New HEI is on its way!