I am looking to upgrade the points in my dizzy to eletronic ignition. I am stuck between which unit to buy. The Crane costs $10 less then the petronix, and comes with an adjustable rev limiter too. It also looks like it is much simpler and easier to install then the Petronix. I have also heard the Petro conversions are very unreliable, is this true?

So which do you think is superior as far as reliabity goes? Reliabity is of the utmost importance to me, I live in the country and am far away from civilization so breaking down means being stranded in the middle of nowwhere. I am leaning towards the Crane XR-1, what do you all think?

Thanks for any and all input


FERacing66

 

I've been thinking about upgrading recently. For total reliability, I'm looking at the Mallory Unilite distributor. Just put it in and go. Here's a write-up I found about it:
"The Unilite Electronic Distributor is triggered by a self-contained, photo-optic infrared L.E.D. system using Mallory's time tested breakerless ignition circuit, combined with modern surface mount Thermal-Clad construction that has no moving parts to adjust or wear out. The Unilite infrared L.E.D. system can drive both original equipment and high performance ignition coils. A simple three wire hookup allows it to fit a wide variety of engine configurations and is designed for 12-volt systems. Mallory has precisely calibrated the mechanical advance (or vacuum advance) curve for normal driving conditions.
However, the mechanical advance curve may be adjusted to meet your specific driving or racing requirements.
Features: Improved combustion efficiency and economy. Increased spark plug life. Improved cold weather starting. Maintenance free operation. Accurate spark timing. Self-lubricating bushings provide years of trouble-free service."

The guy down the road had a set of Pertronix go bad when the shaft rode up a ways, apparently they're real sensitive to vertical movement of the distributor shaft.

 

rusty70f100,

Are you running a MSD box or any other spark amplifier box?

If you are I would suggest the stock ford electronic distributor as they are reliable. Just look at the pickup MSD uses (A Ford Unit).

Tmod700

 

The only problem with the Mallory is the price. Im looking for a cheap upgrade to eletronic igntion.

 

I have the pertronix unit on my 390 and I love it. I have had no problems with it for over ten years.