Electronic Ignition Swap?
Thread Starter
|
Freshman User
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 27
Likes: 0
From: Fall City, Wa
Electronic Ignition Swap?
Hey Im truly tired of having to replace my points and condenser. Im having to replace them WAY too often and Im assuming theres a short. But I dont really want to have to deal with ignition problems again so I plan on replacing everything from the ignition switch to the spark plugs. My question is if theres anyone out there who has successfully converted their ignition to electronic and if so, what are you using and do you recommend a certain brand such as Duraspark.
Cranky Old Guy
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,562
Likes: 6
From: Raphine, Virginia
Wired properly, the Pertronix is a fine upgrade. Opinions will vary, but I still prefer the "77" style Duraspark II with a Motorcraft ignition module. I think Painless is now selling the wiring harness for it, but easily made yourself as the connectors are available from NAPA. I would stay away from the cheap HEI units sold on E-Bay or anything labeled Proform. While some are pleased, there are horror stories with the distributor shaft snapping and clearance issues with air cleaner and thermostat housing due to its physical size.
Elder User
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 618
Likes: 1
From: central oregon
I had a Pertronix which failed after 7 years .The cost of replacing it was to much so i did the Duraspark conversion . It was very easy an i sourced all parts from the wrecking yard.The Duraspark has been very reliable
Posting Guru
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,761
Likes: 8
From: Knoxville, TN
I have no experience with Pertronix so can't offer an opinion there, but the later-model Duraspark-II system is very reliable with a Motorcraft ignition module. Some of the aftermarket ones can be problematic...
Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 19,311
Likes: 97
From: Waterloo, Iowa
If you run points, use NOS from the 60s, many of the points manufactured today are junk, and so are the condensers. Crappy points in worn out distributors = constant problems. Pertronix ignitor esp. in a fresh dizzy is a 5 minute install and no modification required.
Thread Starter
|
Freshman User
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 27
Likes: 0
From: Fall City, Wa
I guess thats another question I have. Will I have to get anything new on top of the ignition system? I know ignitor systems can fit right in a a stock distributor but Im not sure about Duraspark. I also herd on some systems, you have to buy a certain type of plug wires. Could I get some info on this too?
Trending Topics
Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 19,311
Likes: 97
From: Waterloo, Iowa
How many miles on this engine? Is it a rebuild, etc. it's not uncommon for an engine to be rebuilt or swapped but a worn distributor with golly knows how many miles reinstalled. This is a mistake, ask me how I know.
But the Ignitor is as simple as it gets. You won't need anything else but a big ole grin. If the spark plug wires are more than a few years old replace them.
The confusion usually starts with high output coils and deletion of the "pink wire" etc. 40k volt coils can contribute to crossfiring or arcing to ground with defective wires or plugs. Make sure your grounds are clean and bright, shiny tight at the block and firewall, etc. The big issue with vintage iron is corrosion and rust, or paint, on restored trucks.
But the Ignitor is as simple as it gets. You won't need anything else but a big ole grin. If the spark plug wires are more than a few years old replace them.
The confusion usually starts with high output coils and deletion of the "pink wire" etc. 40k volt coils can contribute to crossfiring or arcing to ground with defective wires or plugs. Make sure your grounds are clean and bright, shiny tight at the block and firewall, etc. The big issue with vintage iron is corrosion and rust, or paint, on restored trucks.
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
AEV FXL Super Duty - the Super Duty Raptor Ford Doesn't Make
Brett Foote
Lobo Vs Lobo: Proof the F-150 Lobo Should Be Even Lower!
Michael S. Palmer
Ford's 2001 Explorer Sportsman Concept Looks For a New Home
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Ford Truck Engines We Miss the Most!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Shelby F-150 Off-Road: Better Than a Raptor R?
Brett Foote
2027 Super Duty Carhartt Package First Look: 12 Things You NEED to Know!
Michael S. Palmer
10 Most Surprising 2026 Ford Truck Features!
Joe Kucinski
Top 10 Ford Trucks Coming to Mecum Indy 2026
Brett Foote
5 Best / 5 Worst Ford Truck Wheels of All Time
Joe Kucinski
Thread Starter
|
Freshman User
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 27
Likes: 0
From: Fall City, Wa
Theres about 4,000 on a rebuilt 302 (the motor came from an early 80's f150) but I have all the recipts on what the previous owner did which included a new distributor. But yeah Im gonna probably go through all my wires and check it out. So it sounds like alot of People are recommending a Ignitor which does seem pretty simple to install.
Posting Guru
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 1,761
Likes: 8
From: Knoxville, TN
I guess thats another question I have. Will I have to get anything new on top of the ignition system? I know ignitor systems can fit right in a a stock distributor but Im not sure about Duraspark. I also herd on some systems, you have to buy a certain type of plug wires. Could I get some info on this too?
Thread Starter
|
Freshman User
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 27
Likes: 0
From: Fall City, Wa
Ok so it sounds like I can either get Duraspark system with the module, new distributor, etc. or get a Ignitor and simply install it in my curent distributor. I think I know what Im gonna go with!
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
SVTDriver97
1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks
11
Feb 20, 2014 12:01 PM
lew11998
1973 - 1979 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
3
Jul 27, 1999 06:13 PM