Duraspark II Conversion - How To
Tuned
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 367
Likes: 2
From: summerfield florida
It's Perfect
For everyday use it is the most popular carb size. Go bigger if performance is your only goal.,...jack
Cargo Master
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 2,031
Likes: 72
As to the Duraspark conversion on our 240/300 engines running with the standard Carter YF or Motorcraft carbs - this upgrade does not provide any performance increase, correct? Basically meant to provide a more reliable ignition system, yes?
A step above the Pertronix-type of upgrade?
A step above the Pertronix-type of upgrade?
Freshman User
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
If you're switching from a worn out TFI system yes it's probably more reliable. Definitely more simple, the TFI system has a myriad of wiring and vacuum lines. The performance increases with the DS2 would come from different combination with intakes, carbs, and exhaust. I'm a newbie, all this knowledge is book read from me. I can't say which is a higher performance upgrade between the DS2 and Petronix. I would guess they're pretty close to equal with DS2 parts more readily available. DS2 would be a performance increase over a points distributor.
Hope that helps.
Hope that helps.
Freshman User
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
I'll say this. My truck started out as a TFI system which I got running back from a terrible state. I then switched to a points system because of the simplicity which should equal reliability. If I had it to do all over again I'd go to DS2 because of all the knowledge on this board dealing with DS2. Or a DUI unit if money was no object.
FTE Legend
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 32,875
Likes: 48
From: Northeast, OK
Also, the V8 harness has a ground for the tach that tells it the engine will fire 4 times/revolution. So, if you have a tach and put an 8-cylinder harness in your tach will read incorrectly unless you remove that wire.
FTE Legend
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 32,875
Likes: 48
From: Northeast, OK
If you can get one it is easier. It just plugs and plays. Otherwise you are likely to have to shorten or lengthen a couple of wires.
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Freshman User
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
Yes it's just harder to find the harness where I am currently at. But it's still a good option to use the harness from other rigs. Splicing the wires isn't hard. But the tach I might have to figure something else out.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 1,568
Likes: 33
From: Swansea SC
Duraspark II reliable yes , my main reason was the feedback carb and all the sensors etc . The computer takes feedback from every sensor and I guess in lay mans terms, readjusts it per spark and fuel. Our old systems (at least mine) was doing bad on fuel mileage. Best swap I have made . Good luckTR
Freshman User
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 40
Likes: 0
Yes the feedback system (TFI) had a ton of sensors and vacuum lines. Any leaks and it can be a nightmare. When it works it works great. I got 17 mpg with a full load of firewood. When there were leaks it could get 8 mpg. And a PITA to troubleshoot.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 1,568
Likes: 33
From: Swansea SC
I truly agree . No computer, no problems , currently getting 15,( running 32-11.50x 15 tires). My upgrade was the Cliffords system , weber 38-38 progressive carb, long tube headers, x pipe and a set of magnaflow exhaust (dual).Just installed a electric fuel pump(redline) .This truck has over 600000 miles .TR
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 1,568
Likes: 33
From: Swansea SC
Yes , I bought this truck new in sept 1984 $9200, had ac no radio 4 speed(granny gear) and bench vinyl seat with sliding rear glass .My work commute once was 48 miles one way , then 55 miles one way. I have pulled boats , over the years and currently have a 24 foot and 6 x12 trailer .I rarely pull tractors , motorcycles and recently pulled a four door 2004 dodge truck(fuel)(pump went out) Crusing at 45 it ran great but its a short wheel base .The airbags help even the load.TR