can someone explain HEI to me?

[Blizz]

I read in some thread that that's one of the first mods to do. How is it different than a regular distributor? How much is it? and Why do I need/want one?

[bouncytruck]

I don't know the technical side, but there are no points so it is much more stable and efficient. The downside is that it puts the cap and wires very close to the firewall.

I think for replacement you are just looking at the price of a new distributor and wires.

Someone told me that wires for a corvette work best, but I don't remember the year.

[johnnywagon]

Definitely a worthy/easy mod. An HEI distributor has no points, uses an internal electronic contol module and an internal coil. When you swap out a points distributor all you need to do is run a NEW "key-on" power wire to the HEI, and you will need new plug wires. They do sit a little close to the firewall, unless you have a body lift. The price is right too, PROFORM #66941 (R) is a complete aluminum unit that sells for $90 to $130. A great performance mod that I highly recommend for HEI is the MSD #83645 contol module.

[jkaylor68gmc]

Johnny Wagon is dead on. It is a great improvement and will help out fuel miliage too!

[bigpig72CST]

I would also remember to make sure and run a new ignition hot wire when doing this swap just like Johnny Wagon said. I didn't put a new wire in, and there wasn't enough voltage from the existing wire, and I had a problem with the motor popping, and falling on it's face when I put throttle to it. Thanks to the guys on this board the problem is solved. I believe a 10 guage wire ran from the HEI distributor to an open spot in your fuse box is the easiest way.

[1969C/10]

Good question and explanation!

[brak]

Hei distributors are fairly cheap.
On my last camaro, i replaced the computer controlled dist with a Vaccum advanced HEI from summit (summit brand), and if i remember right, it only cost around $75.

Although The cap is slightly bigger, it will clean up your engine compartment considerably since there is no need for the externally mounted coil.

As for wiring, just get yourself a set of universal wires, then you can cut them to the proper length, and crimp on the HEI style connectors. Although all smallblocks are the same, i've never found a pre cut wire set that fit worth a crap.

[Critter]

I agree with all of the above. You can find a good used set-up about anywhere, or you can save a little time and buy a kit. As far as the ignition wire is concerned, there is an open terminal in your fuse box that is labeled "ignition". However, it's unfused. Just solder up a 10-gauge wire with an inline fuse holder, plug one end to this fuse box connection, and the other to the terminal on the HEI labeled "ign". Your HEI will now turn on and off with your key. I've done this conversion to all my old trucks. It makes your ignition system SOOO much more dependable and simpler (if that’s a word). Definitely worth it!!!

[Blizz]

thanks everyone. i really appreciate it. ok so where can i get one of those HEIs?? what all do i need to get??

[Jnibgood]

How exactly does it improve your gas mileage???

[Huck]

HEI has a hotter spark and holds it's spark consistant which the points can't do. HOWEVER on a 4x4, the distributor cab is VERY CLOSE to the firewall. You can upgrade an existing distributor or convert to a "original Like" distributor that runs HEI but will need to continue with the external coil. Much easier to replace cab and it will give you plenty of wire clearance.
As far as spark plug wires go for a GM HEI---first off you want a distributor that uses vacuum advance (not computer controlled). Then the wires from a 1975 Corvette are a drop in and fit best--assuming you are routing them as designed.