Pertronix elec ignition

[bc gman]

I have been been thinking of installing an electronic ignition but then someone had told me about putting in a pertronix elec ignition that fits into the stock distrbutor, would this be a better option and does it perfrom well on a stock engine.

[Already Gone]

I have a Pertronix Distributor with their coil and new 7 mm stock looking wires ready to install in my truck. I did lots of research before I purchased the parts and everything I found out was positive including talking with friends who had installed them in various vehicles. I actually called their Tech Line and told them what I wanted to purchase and what type of engine I had and they agreed that what I bought, for my use ,is what I need. Use the search tab to see threads on Pertronix.

http://www.pertronix.com/prod/ig/ignitor2/default.aspx

http://www.summitracing.com/int/part...0700/overview/

[custom10nut]

I installed one 18years ago. You won't be disappointed. I just got tired of adjusting the points and the floating at the higher RPMs. I also had the desire of keeping the original distributor. It would be easiest to install the module with the distributor out on the bench, but it can be done while it's in the engine

[nds1968]

Originally Posted by custom10nut

I installed one 18years ago. You won't be disappointed. I just got tired of adjusting the points and the floating at the higher RPMs. I also had the desire of keeping the original distributor. It would be easiest to install the module with the distributor out on the bench, but it can be done while it's in the engine

Yeah I wanted to keep the original distributor was my main reason, I pulled the distributor to make the install easier.

[Wrenchbender Ret]

The factory HEI unit is the best way to go but if clearance problems or originality is desired the Pertronix is good. I've done them both ways.

[57larry]

I have it in my 2 other vehicles, no problems

[70cst]

I installed a Pertronix Distributor about ten years ago with zero issues.

[davepl]

I've been running one since shortly after buying my truck, as it came with the incorrect big-cap HEI unit (which runs fine, but looks out of place if you care about that).

I went with their stock-bodied Delco-looking distributor too, as I didn't have a decent core, but I'd just as happily have put the module in my own distributor if I'd had one.

I've heard people having tach compatibility issues with the Ignitor III, which is what I have, but I think my tach is fine, though one I had read wrong (I just tried a different one and it worked). Apparently the Ignitor II, if you can still get it, tends to be more compatible with a broader range of tachs.

[Ironhorse]

I have the Pertronix Ignitor II in my '71 4x4. Engine sits back further towards the firewall with the 4wd and very little room for a large cap HEI distributor. Used my original Delco/Remy distributor for the correct "look" and also for the fit. Also used a Pertronix coil, very satisfied so far. Been in there almost two years now. Hooked to my original GM factory tach I installed after finding it in a salvage yard and it works fine.

[bc gman]

Thanks for the feedback i think that is the route I am going to take.

[D.PASSMORE]

http://performancedistributors.com/p...nition-system/

I run these, Made in USA!

[FlameOut]

With that above mentioned distributor from Summit, is there anything else needed, or can I just pull my large cap HEI distributor and drop this one in?

[jocko]

Note that the DUI small dia distrib has an externally mounted module. So if space is the concern, these would be great. I original look is the concern, I'd personally go with the internal pertronix setup. For clarification David - since you have these - is the module externally mountable anywhere" (like, inside the firewall) it does it have to be hangin on the cap as depicted? If anywhere, then disregard my comments and this WOUKD be a nice alternative. I'm no familiar and the image on their page threw me off a bit. Thx for sharing this)

[FlameOut]

Space is the main concern for me. I have a 72 K10 w/350 and my current HEI cap only has about a 1/4" clearance from the firewall. It works, but looks like crap. I just wanted a stock looking, smaller dia cap dist.

Not meaning to hi-jack this thread, but maybe this info might help other too

[D.PASSMORE]

I've run these (DUI) on my stock 4x4's for the last 6-7 years and no issues with clearences or peformance. I've never liked the pertronix because you had to play with the springs to get the right curve. Never could get the right feel, DUI will set the curve to your desire or recommend one. Really easy to comminicate with, quality made products and they back there warranty, good ole boys from Tenneessee.

BTW, The module mounts in the back (towards the fire wall). I remove the harness and solder the connectors to the pigtail, put some heat shrink around it - plug it back together. I can take a picture and post if anyone is intrested.

[steelhorse]

I put them in all my customers car/trucks that want to keep a stock looking engine but want better drivability. I have never had a problem with any of them and every engine I have put them in has run better.

[Stoli]

Put one in last year. No problems

[lovemy71s]

I ran one for around 5 years with no issues at all. Took it out cuz my tbi set came with a new distributer

[jmader]

Is the original igniter unit the only one that can be run with stock plug wires?

['68OrangeSunshine]

I had a Pertronix Ignitor II and FlmeThrower II coil on an Accel blueprinted Delco-Remy distributor, on my 292 L6 in a '68 C/10 Stepside. For about 7 years it ran real good, then it started cutting out at freeway speeds. I'd be going about 65 MPH, 3200 RPM, and the engine would just quit --in gear and rotating w/o spark at high RPM. I'd hafta kick in the clutch, turn the key OFF then ON, slow down to 55 MPH, and pop start in 4th. Usually some frustrated commuter was right up my tailpipe and leaning on his horn.
I talked [via email] with one of their tech reps and at his suggestion, sent the whole unit back to San Dimas, Calif. for evaluation, and never heard from them again.
I built up a Delco-Remy points distributor from the best components I had -- new breaker plate, points, condenser, rotor and cap; and changed out coils. After re-gapping plugs to .035 and tune-up with a dwell meter, it ran fine, and my 292 passed emissions.
I have a new-in-the-box HEI L6 distributor standing by on a shelf, but I'm having fun running with points.

[jocko]

Originally Posted by D.PASSMORE

I've run these (DUI) on my stock 4x4's for the last 6-7 years and no issues with clearences or peformance. I've never liked the pertronix because you had to play with the springs to get the right curve. Never could get the right feel, DUI will set the curve to your desire or recommend one. Really easy to comminicate with, quality made products and they back there warranty, good ole boys from Tenneessee.

BTW, The module mounts in the back (towards the fire wall). I remove the harness and solder the connectors to the pigtail, put some heat shrink around it - plug it back together. I can take a picture and post if anyone is intrested.

I'd like a pic David - appreciate the extra info, sounds like a good system.

[quick60]

Not trying to hijack this post but it is related.

IN reference to installing the pertronix distributor, the tech guy said I need to have 12 volts at the coil wire and eliminate any resistors in the circuit. The only resistors I know of are the ceramic style firewall mounted which I do not see. How do you test the voltage at the coil to verify another type of resistor and remove it? Im running a 67 GMS 3/4 ton with a 250 L6.

[davepl]

On GM cars there's not usually a ceramic on the firewall, it's built into the white coil wire. You can remove and replace that wire or bypass it.

[quick60]

Any particular style replacement wire or just one of equal gauge?

Thanks for the help

[davepl]

Originally Posted by quick60

Any particular style replacement wire or just one of equal gauge?

Thanks for the help

Depends on what the ignition module is rated to consume, really, but equivalent gauge with no resistance (beyond copper) should be fine. Go one gauge thicker if in doubt I suppose. I'd at least match what's coming out of the module if you can.