Distributor interchange question
Cargo Master
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 3,132
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From: W (BY GOD) V
But properly done, a DS is no more complicated than anything else. About all it has that an MSD or Pertronix doesn't is the "start" circuit to boost the spark during cranking.
Cargo Master
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 3,132
Likes: 217
From: W (BY GOD) V
The resistor only reduced the operating VOLT to the coil, not the ICM. BAT VOLT was applied to the coil only @ START.
The WHITE wire on a DS II system retards the IGN LEAD @ start for easier starting.
The full BAT VOLT START was also used on points systems (12 V - 56/ ).
BTW - DS II was not introduced until the 1977 model year. All previous designs (1973/ ) were SOLID STATE IGN.
The WHITE wire on a DS II system retards the IGN LEAD @ start for easier starting.
The full BAT VOLT START was also used on points systems (12 V - 56/ ).
BTW - DS II was not introduced until the 1977 model year. All previous designs (1973/ ) were SOLID STATE IGN.
Last edited by KULTULZ; Feb 18, 2021 at 07:48 AM. Reason: CRS
Cargo Master
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 3,132
Likes: 217
From: W (BY GOD) V
The system is fine if it came OEM, but if retrofitting a older ignition system, PERTONIX II is much simpler (IMO).
Either FORD DS II ICM or PERTRONIX module is subject to failure, as are all automotive components. The MAIN PROBLEM(s) I have observed is incorrect application and/or install. Stay away from PERTRONIX I.
A Pertronix is probably a better solution for a "mostly stock" build, and even up into lower-end performance. Once you get past that, you can worry about timing stability at high RPMs and a host of other things.
Cargo Master
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 2,539
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From: Harned, Ky
76/up was Dura Spark II
Main difference was the control box and bigger cap
I worked as a Ford mechanic in 75/76, worked at a local shop 76/78 replaced a lot of the black DS boxes on the 73,74,75 Ford Elite's, LTD's, rarely ever replaced a DS II blue box.
It would be easy to convert a DS to a DS II
Cargo Master
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 3,132
Likes: 217
From: W (BY GOD) V
73/75 was Dura Spark
76/up was Dura Spark II
Main difference was the control box and bigger cap
I worked as a Ford mechanic in 75/76, worked at a local shop 76/78 replaced a lot of the black DS boxes on the 73,74,75 Ford Elite's, LTD's, rarely ever replaced a DS II blue box.
It would be easy to convert a DS to a DS II
1976 used a blue strain relief ICM which was later replaced by the 1977/ DS II ICM . DS II (1977) also introduced the larger cap and the coil output got stronger over the years.
There was also DS I and III.
I also worked for dealers.
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