HEI in 283?

[RTHarvey]

I have a 67 C10 with a 283. It's not the original 283, but it looks to be mostly original configuration, except for an Edelbrock intake and 500cfm 4-brl. Is there any reason that makes it not possible to put in an HEI distributor? Good idea? Bad idea? pros? cons? Any particular brand?
Thaks for any advice

[jocko]

You can install an HEI on your 283. Recommend browse around on here for all the installation tips folks have provided over the years - things like full 12V, etc.
HEIs are a good idea because they eliminate the points (and therefore point wear, need to change/adjust every once in a while, etc) and are reliable (although I'd avoid overseas-made new ones - the best ones are the original GM HEIs - and some very reputable, but sometimes pricey, new U.S. made HEIs). The only con is non-original appearance. If that matters to you, you may want to consider a pertronix unit that also eliminates the points but fits under your current distributor cap.

['68OrangeSunshine]

Why not? HEI will fit any SBC V8.

[Steeveedee]

Same distributor fits big blocks, too. When the 305 I had in my '68 Skylark finally died, I went back to Buick power, and put that very distributor in my truck. There are some very early Corvettes ('50s) that I hear tell took a distributor with a longer driveshaft, but I've never seen one.

[Wrenchbender Ret]

On some model trucks there are clearance problems with the firewall or air filter. Your 67 C10 is not one of them. I agree the factory HEI is the best one to use. They are easy to rebuild and clean up. If you replace any electronic parts use original equipment or name brands.

George

[KQQL IT]

Blob of cam break in lube on the gear wouldn't hurt

[mr48chev]

One thing you want to do is get the correct plug and gauge wire to connect the power wire to the HEI. While a female slide terminal will work, it will also come loose enough for the engine to stall at very inopportune times. Mine on my 71 usually chose 3:30 in the morning in the rain on the way to work.

I hooked my power feed to the hei to the IGN Unfused pin on the fuse block. That is hot any time you have the key on or when cranking with a full; 12 volts. I just taped the ends of the original ignition wire folded it up and tucked it away with a couple of zip ties to the near by wiring harness. No fuss and if I ever decide to go back to points the wiring is all there.

This is the fuse block and you can see the correct pin (s) to plug into. That way nothing is cut, nothing is disturbed and all is good.


On the 71 I picked up far quicker startup especially in cold weather and 2mpg that doesn't sound like a lot but when you go from 10 to 12 that is a big percentage.