Distributor / Coil Recomendations

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Mar 2, 2004 | 07:48 PM

mechanicsburg

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Distributor / Coil Recomendations

I have a 1966 SWB stepside with 352 3 speed. I will be installing Edelbrock Performer 390 Intake and 4 bbl carb and am considering a mild performance cam. Headers are also in the picture.
My question is that I suppose I should replace the stock distributor, but there are so many types in the catalogues. Many costing several hundred dollars. I don't want to install anything rediculous or that I won't utilize, but I want something modern, efficient and reliable. What are the recommendations? This will just be a driver.

Mar 2, 2004 | 09:04 PM

fixn66

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I dont really know what your looking to spend.But I also have a 352 with a Edelbrock Performer intake and 4 bbl Carb.I just purchased a Mallory electronic distributor along with a Mallory coil.Cost me around $375.00.Hope that might help you.

Mar 2, 2004 | 09:26 PM

BobbyFord

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An inexpensive way to go is a Pertronix unit that replaces the points and condenser and utilizes the stock coil. About $80.00

Mar 3, 2004 | 07:53 AM

FERacing66

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From: Jackassville

id go with the petronix as well, you keep the orgianal look of the motor if that matters and its cheap compared to buying an electroic ignion.

Mar 3, 2004 | 10:25 AM

Mike G

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From: Littleton, CO

Or you can get a 75/76 Duraspark distributor from the local autoparts store for about $65, make a trip to the salvage yard for the wiring and brainbox and go from there (search the site for Duraspark upgrades).

--Mike G

Mar 3, 2004 | 11:52 AM

Roger Carter

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From: Corbett, Oregon

I agree with Mike G, if original appearance is not important. Otherwise, the Pertronix is the way to go. The Duraspark is a good choice for a mild FE motor. I like to use a MSD 6A in place of the Duraspark brain box though. The MSD has very good wiring diagrams and makes the install a snap. The Duraspark / MSD combination is what I use on my rigs.
Which ever way you decide on make sure the distributor is in good condition, or you will not get full benefit of the dollars spent. A re-curve is always a good idea, also. Typically you would want all the advance in by about 3,000 rpm.
Hope this helps.
Roger Carter