Should I swap to a HEI system? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

WadmalawJoe · 01-01-2013, 08:18 PM

I have this now and the truck just up and died, as mentioned in my other post.

I'm thinking my ignition module went out and I don't think Accel makes my distributor anymore and the module is not as readily available as I would like.

Don't the HEI systems replace the coil and innards of the distributor and its a whole lot more reliable?

68gmsee · 01-01-2013, 08:32 PM

If parts are not readily available, I would change it. HEI parts are very common.

sanford&daughter · 01-01-2013, 08:34 PM

I went from points to hei and couldnt be happier

**leddzepp** · 01-01-2013, 08:39 PM

Yes
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sanford&daughter · 01-01-2013, 08:48 PM

Male or female on your cap? You may need to change your wires or change your ends to fit the hei cap

**Stocker** · 01-01-2013, 09:19 PM

Do it, you won't regret it. I swapped several years ago to a used GM HEI. It's a completely different distributor and as mentioned, needs different plug wires. You also need to regap your plugs to .045 (instead of .035). It's one of the best things I ever did to my truck -- it's 4WD and the distributor is hard to reach, so changing & setting points was a PITA. Remember to run a 12V lead to the HEI. Pretty sure there's at least one FAQ that tells everything you need to know.

RANDY COX · 01-01-2013, 09:38 PM

DOOOOOOOO IIIIIIIIIIIIIIITTTTTTTTTTTTTTT.My brother use to tell me why don't you upgrade that thang,I finally did and man did it wake up that ole six...

71K20chevy · 01-01-2013, 11:31 PM

Swapped an HEI into mine and it's much better and more reliable.

cubber · 01-01-2013, 11:42 PM

When I had my six, it made a BIG difference!

LSUMurse · 01-01-2013, 11:51 PM

I threw one in mine and went from 10 mpg to 11.5. Pretty significant for just one part. Remember you'll have to get different plug wires.

ItsRandy · 01-02-2013, 12:07 AM

What LeddZepp said.

**Already Gone** · 01-02-2013, 12:51 AM

I'm not putting in a plug here for Jegs ( it was the first thing on the Google search ) because you can get these distributors from a lot of vendors and for the price they are a great deal. I've had one of these in my truck since 2007 and I remember when I installed it the truck instantly ran better.

http://www.jegs.com/i/MSD/121/8362/10002/-1

1972RedNeck · 01-02-2013, 01:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by leddzepp

Yes

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**truckster** · 01-02-2013, 01:17 AM

As I mentioned in your other post, it's the best low-buck upgrade you can make to your truck. You won't regret it.

darush01 · 01-02-2013, 02:05 AM

Im also considering doing it myself, i have a few hei caps and i think i also have the distributor in storage if not i have an 85 gmc with a rod knocking that can donate the whole setup including new wires so i think i might go ahead and do it is it just remove it Drop new one in and run a new wire thats 12v ?
Posted via Mobile Device

**Stocker** · 01-02-2013, 02:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by darush01

is it just remove it Drop new one in and run a new wire thats 12v ?

That's what I did.... But first I verified timing, then set timing the same after dropping in the HEI. And gap the plugs to .045.

**truckster** · 01-02-2013, 02:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by darush01

Im also considering doing it myself, i have a few hei caps and i think i also have the distributor in storage if not i have an 85 gmc with a rod knocking that can donate the whole setup including new wires so i think i might go ahead and do it is it just remove it Drop new one in and run a new wire thats 12v ?
Posted via Mobile Device

It's easiest if you set your engine to #1 TDC before you pull the old distributor and then you can just stab in the HEI at #1 TDC. Make a mark on the manifold before you pull the old one so you have a reference.

You need a full 12v at the BAT connector and it should be off the IGN so it's only one when you want the truck to run. The stock coil wire has a resistor in in it, so you'll need a new one.

It's also a good time to replace plugs and wires.

CSGAS · 01-02-2013, 06:59 AM

I thought the Accel distributor conversions used an optical sensor instead of magnetic or Hall effect like HEI, Mopar, Pertronix, etc...the cap on that distributor seems to back that up as it resembles the setup Mallory Unilites run with. If this is true then the little black box that sits where you'd expect the points to be, will have a little window on it that can easily get dirty and prevent the spark from being triggered. Look for the window, and if it's there clean it WITHOUT leaving streaks! and bolt it back in to try it again.

If I sound a little unsure it's because your Accel distributor has the kind of vanes on the center trigger (where the distributor lobes would be) that look more appropriate for Hall effect triggers.

If there is one weakness about stock HEIs it's that the ignition modules fail a lot from heat and vibration too. As parts stores have gotten cheaper (NOT less expensive!) the replacement modules fail faster. Make sure your module is securely mounted, using something like heat sink paste as a sealer underneath (not just dielectric silicone or anything normal). Carry a spare module around with you. Some people even wire up the HEI to work from an external Mopar ignition module, which is a bit more vibration resistant.

WadmalawJoe · 01-02-2013, 08:16 AM

Thanks for all the responses!

I will be swapping over!

I will need some input on how to install it, as me and distributors DO NOT get along. I will start a new thread on help installing HEI.

Thanks again!

shawno72 · 01-02-2013, 08:21 AM

You can get a brand new billet hei off eBay for about $45 shipped to your door and they work great. I have one and never worry about it.
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CSGAS · 01-02-2013, 01:53 PM

Look in the part board for links to the one I am selling on eBay. If the listing expires before you get it I will relist it. I'm going to the parts board now to add the link, so check for the new thread.

I'd normally be happy to sell it direct but I think I'd be breaking a few forum rules if I did :-)

jhwkns · 01-02-2013, 05:52 PM

Not all HEI's are created equal. In fact, far from it. As with most things, "you get what you pay for." Stock GM HEI ignitions aren't much good above 4,500 rpm. Do some research before you spend good money on a bad ignition.

I've got one of these...http://www.performancedistributors.com/

01-01-2013, 08:32 PM	#2
68gmsee Active Member Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Centrally located between Houston, Austin and Waco. BCS area. Posts: 7,947	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? If parts are not readily available, I would change it. HEI parts are very common. __________________ 68 GMC 250/3 speed Saginaw p/b p/s 69 Chevy 350/350 currently in pieces still lookin for a cab 06 Trailblazer I just want a vehicle that I can work on, that won't talk to me, leave error msgs or keep track of how I drive...

01-01-2013, 08:34 PM	#3
sanford&daughter Registered User Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: Upstate , New York Posts: 647	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? I went from points to hei and couldnt be happier

01-01-2013, 08:39 PM	#4
leddzepp Moderator Join Date: May 2007 Location: Southern Cal Posts: 20,031	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? Yes Posted via Mobile Device __________________ 1972 C/10 Cheyenne Super SWB. Restored, loaded, slammed. 1968 C/10 50th Anniversary LWB. Unrestored, stock, daily driver/work truck. RIP ElJay RIP 67ChevyRedneck RIP Grumpy Old Man RIP FleetsidePaul

01-01-2013, 08:48 PM	#5
sanford&daughter Registered User Join Date: Dec 2012 Location: Upstate , New York Posts: 647	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? Male or female on your cap? You may need to change your wires or change your ends to fit the hei cap

01-01-2013, 09:19 PM	#6
Stocker 20' Daredevil (Ret) Join Date: May 2003 Location: Jefferson State Posts: 13,722	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? Do it, you won't regret it. I swapped several years ago to a used GM HEI. It's a completely different distributor and as mentioned, needs different plug wires. You also need to regap your plugs to .045 (instead of .035). It's one of the best things I ever did to my truck -- it's 4WD and the distributor is hard to reach, so changing & setting points was a PITA. Remember to run a 12V lead to the HEI. Pretty sure there's at least one FAQ that tells everything you need to know. __________________ - Mike - 1972 K20 LWB 350/350/205 RIP El Jay

01-01-2013, 08:18 PM	#1
WadmalawJoe Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Ravenel SC Posts: 317	Should I swap to a HEI system? I have this now and the truck just up and died, as mentioned in my other post. I'm thinking my ignition module went out and I don't think Accel makes my distributor anymore and the module is not as readily available as I would like. Don't the HEI systems replace the coil and innards of the distributor and its a whole lot more reliable? __________________ Toys/projects Many toys, not enough time to play! My youngest son and I picked up a 69 Chevy C-10 on 1/7/22, this is my second 69, it was 10 years ago that I had my other one. So I’m back!!!

01-01-2013, 09:38 PM	#7
RANDY COX Registered User Join Date: Mar 2001 Location: RADFORD, VA Posts: 2,651	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? DOOOOOOOO IIIIIIIIIIIIIIITTTTTTTTTTTTTTT.My brother use to tell me why don't you upgrade that thang,I finally did and man did it wake up that ole six... __________________ 1964 BBC 402 4x4

01-01-2013, 11:31 PM	#8
71K20chevy Registered User Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Ft Wayne Indiana Posts: 1,204	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? Swapped an HEI into mine and it's much better and more reliable. __________________ 71 K20 64 GMC mud truck

01-01-2013, 11:42 PM	#9
cubber Registered User Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: Leanna, TN Posts: 2,061	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? When I had my six, it made a BIG difference! __________________ =MATTHEW 69 Stepper...Stroked & Bagged GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN 2003 Chevrolet Z71 Ext. Cab 1995 Cavalier gas saver!

01-01-2013, 11:51 PM	#10
LSUMurse Registered User Join Date: Mar 2012 Location: New Orleans, La Posts: 406	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? I threw one in mine and went from 10 mpg to 11.5. Pretty significant for just one part. Remember you'll have to get different plug wires. __________________ It's not that I am apathetic, I just don't care. If your life is a joke, it appears death will be your punchline.

01-02-2013, 12:07 AM	#11
ItsRandy Registered User Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Grand Terrace, Ca. Posts: 1,607	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? What LeddZepp said.

01-02-2013, 12:51 AM	#12
Already Gone 70+ ( Old Skool Club ) Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan ,Canada Posts: 9,143	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? I'm not putting in a plug here for Jegs ( it was the first thing on the Google search ) because you can get these distributors from a lot of vendors and for the price they are a great deal. I've had one of these in my truck since 2007 and I remember when I installed it the truck instantly ran better. http://www.jegs.com/i/MSD/121/8362/10002/-1 __________________ 1972 C10 Custom/Deluxe 613 Highlander 406/700R4 1999 White Tahoe LS 4x2 with Z56 Police Package 1992 K1500 GMC Suburban Members I have personally met: MusicMan70 - HeavyD - ChewyChevy67 - StingRay -71SWB4x4 - 67 Burb - DeadheadNM - too much stuff - bc65 - das601 " Circumsatances Do Not Change Responsibility " " The Sky is not the Limit, Your Mind is." Marilyn Monroe .. RIP Charlie Watts 1941 - 2021

01-02-2013, 01:17 AM	#14
truckster Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Orem, Utah Posts: 7,976	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? As I mentioned in your other post, it's the best low-buck upgrade you can make to your truck. You won't regret it.

01-02-2013, 02:05 AM	#15
darush01 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Louisville ky Posts: 398	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? Im also considering doing it myself, i have a few hei caps and i think i also have the distributor in storage if not i have an 85 gmc with a rod knocking that can donate the whole setup including new wires so i think i might go ahead and do it is it just remove it Drop new one in and run a new wire thats 12v ? Posted via Mobile Device

01-02-2013, 06:59 AM	#18
CSGAS optomistic ah-so Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Charlotte, NC Posts: 544	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? I thought the Accel distributor conversions used an optical sensor instead of magnetic or Hall effect like HEI, Mopar, Pertronix, etc...the cap on that distributor seems to back that up as it resembles the setup Mallory Unilites run with. If this is true then the little black box that sits where you'd expect the points to be, will have a little window on it that can easily get dirty and prevent the spark from being triggered. Look for the window, and if it's there clean it WITHOUT leaving streaks! and bolt it back in to try it again. If I sound a little unsure it's because your Accel distributor has the kind of vanes on the center trigger (where the distributor lobes would be) that look more appropriate for Hall effect triggers. If there is one weakness about stock HEIs it's that the ignition modules fail a lot from heat and vibration too. As parts stores have gotten cheaper (NOT less expensive!) the replacement modules fail faster. Make sure your module is securely mounted, using something like heat sink paste as a sealer underneath (not just dielectric silicone or anything normal). Carry a spare module around with you. Some people even wire up the HEI to work from an external Mopar ignition module, which is a bit more vibration resistant. __________________ Rubbing is Racin' Ribbing is Bench Racin' 1970 C-10 lwb Fleetside. Originally 350 2-bbl 3-on-the-tree, m/b, m/w, m/s no a/c. Currently running on a '76 Camaro 305.



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01-02-2013, 08:16 AM	#19
WadmalawJoe Registered User Join Date: Oct 2012 Location: Ravenel SC Posts: 317	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? Thanks for all the responses! I will be swapping over! I will need some input on how to install it, as me and distributors DO NOT get along. I will start a new thread on help installing HEI. Thanks again! __________________ Toys/projects Many toys, not enough time to play! My youngest son and I picked up a 69 Chevy C-10 on 1/7/22, this is my second 69, it was 10 years ago that I had my other one. So I’m back!!!

01-02-2013, 08:21 AM	#20
shawno72 C/10 junkie Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Stockton Ca Posts: 9,093	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? You can get a brand new billet hei off eBay for about $45 shipped to your door and they work great. I have one and never worry about it. Posted via Mobile Device __________________ Shawn 70 LWB C10 current driver/project http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=663051 68 SWB C10 Work in progress.....SOLD http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=559520 72 LWB C10 Sold 71 LWB C10 Sold 68 LWB C10 CST Sold http://youtu.be/kbB0QrBIs9k My mom always had the best advice. It was just a tad late. After a fall that involved blood, she'd say....."Careful!"

01-02-2013, 01:53 PM	#21
CSGAS optomistic ah-so Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Charlotte, NC Posts: 544	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? Look in the part board for links to the one I am selling on eBay. If the listing expires before you get it I will relist it. I'm going to the parts board now to add the link, so check for the new thread. I'd normally be happy to sell it direct but I think I'd be breaking a few forum rules if I did :-) __________________ Rubbing is Racin' Ribbing is Bench Racin' 1970 C-10 lwb Fleetside. Originally 350 2-bbl 3-on-the-tree, m/b, m/w, m/s no a/c. Currently running on a '76 Camaro 305.

01-02-2013, 05:52 PM	#22
jhwkns Registered Cruiser Join Date: May 2002 Location: Las Vegas NV Posts: 2,230	Re: Should I swap to a HEI system? Not all HEI's are created equal. In fact, far from it. As with most things, "you get what you pay for." Stock GM HEI ignitions aren't much good above 4,500 rpm. Do some research before you spend good money on a bad ignition. I've got one of these...http://www.performancedistributors.com/ __________________ I intend to live forever. So far, so good.

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