Electronic ignition conversions won't get rid of the advance mechanism seizing problem as the conversions use the regular distributor to send the current to the spark plugs, and that distributor has a mechanical advance mechanism. All those conversions do is get rid of the points and condenser (which is a big hassle reducer, until your ignition control module blows). You indicate you have twin 350's (Chevrolets, I assume?). You might be able to convert to electronic by installing a remanufactured HEI (High Energy Ignition) distributor available from most auto parts stores. You can recognize these instantly: They have a huge distributor cap with a clip that holds down the plug wires. These are great. They're a one-wire drop-in replacement for the standard distributor. Another advantage to HEI is that the mechanical advance weights and springs are on top of the distributor, just under the rotor, so you can get at them and lubricate them. Most other distributors, they're buried under the points plate. They have the coil in the distributor cap, and the coil puts out around 60,000 volts (versus around 25,000 for a standard coils).
I worked at an automotive garage shortly after these were introduced on cars, and it was worth the price of admission to see one of the tune-up guys pull a shock from a plug wire on an HEI-equipped car. Getting knocked clear across the garage on your can just once was enough to teach great respect for these systems. You have to change the plugs to plugs designed for HEI use, and the plugs are gapped huge (like 60 thousandths versus 35 thousandths for standard ignition systems), and HEI uses 8mm plug wires vs 7mm. I had a '76 Pontiac with HEI and it was the easiest-starting car I ever owned. Just a tap on the key and it would catch. Loved it. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "UnifliteWorld" group. To post to this group, send email to [email protected]. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to [email protected]. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/unifliteworld?hl=en.
