86' Ignition Wiring
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Joined: May 2016
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From: Upstate NY
86' Ignition Wiring
So I've got an 86' F250 (4x2 4sp-manual). Originally equipped with a fuel-injected 6-300. Previous owner snipped the wiring to the top of the engine, removed the ignition control stuff, and slapped a carb'd 302 in place. Has a Mallory Unilite Distributor and stock-looking coil. Over the winter it became difficult to start at times as it sat for extended periods and I won't allow it to be road-salted. Come spring, it almost refuses to start. Checked obvious things like fuel, ground, etc. Replaced leaking coil. Can't seem to get spark through the distributor anymore. I've ordered a Pertronix distributor which I understand to have it's own coil on top of the cap. Just waiting for it to come UPS. I've read the Unilite recommends a parlicular ballast resistor to function properly...though mine was working without. Also there is no condenser. I'm hoping Pertronix has good instructions included when it arrives but maybe someone here has been through it already. Is this going to be as simple as connecting my 12V key-on wire to the new system?
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Joined: Jan 2001
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From: Virginia
If the Pertronix is a GM HEI type unit, you will need to run a new 12gauge wire from the ignition switch to the new distributor. You will get the full performance of the unit by running the larger wire. If this is important, they will have it in the instructions so I would not ignore it.
If the Unilite recommended a resistor you should have installed one. If you don't they overheat and burn out, and the coil runs hot also. More than likely that is why the old coil leaked fluid all over the place. It may have eventually burned up the unilite module.
If the Unilite recommended a resistor you should have installed one. If you don't they overheat and burn out, and the coil runs hot also. More than likely that is why the old coil leaked fluid all over the place. It may have eventually burned up the unilite module.
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Joined: Nov 2015
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From: Angier, NC
I never liked the Mallory Unilite Distributor I ran in a 73 Datsun 510 w/1600 cc motor.
I did run the resister and Mallory coil new wires but it would not start if damp/raining out.
Now the duel point Mallory I love as I have 2, 1 with a electronic kit, no longer made by Mallory, the other still running points and starts every time!
I was told Pertronix makes a unit for the Mallory dist to replace the guts so that could of been a way to go if you did not buy the other dist. all ready.
Dave ----
I did run the resister and Mallory coil new wires but it would not start if damp/raining out.
Now the duel point Mallory I love as I have 2, 1 with a electronic kit, no longer made by Mallory, the other still running points and starts every time!
I was told Pertronix makes a unit for the Mallory dist to replace the guts so that could of been a way to go if you did not buy the other dist. all ready.
Dave ----
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