msd systems

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Jun 13, 2005 | 05:44 PM

rogue_nine_2000

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Mar 2005

Posts: 20

Likes: 0

msd systems

I'm looking to put a msd system on my truck. Is there any thing I need to do besides putting it in and hooking it up. Its a 81 f-100, 302 auto.

Jun 14, 2005 | 09:04 AM

Sycostang67

Lead Driver

Joined: Dec 2002

Posts: 5,491

Likes: 16

From: Kuna ID

It's pretty simple, it comes with instructions to install it on just about any setup you might have, be it factory or aftermarket. Only problem I had was assuming the magnetic trigger instructions would work with a pertronix ignitor. There were seperate instructions for the ignitor, so it was only a minor setback.

Jun 14, 2005 | 08:46 PM

Taynton1

Mountain Pass

Joined: Jan 2002

Posts: 198

Likes: 0

From: Ft. Pierce Fl usa

I have now put two in my 85 F-350 460. The first died. I have had various issues with the MSD6a. It does not work well with the factory Tach, giving bad (high) readings and I am using their tach adaptor. Tech people have been of little assistance.

When the first one died, I of coarse had to buy another so the truck could work. I then called MSD to find out I can have the unit repaired for between $11 and $70, so I spent $14 to send it to them. After three weeks they called to tell me the unit was a total loss and unrepairable, so much for the 11 to 70 routine. I could pay them and they would send the dead unit back. So I kind of guess some tech is riding around with my repaired unit in his car.

Once again I started having ignition trouble so I had to buy another (3rd) unit so I can swap out for diagnostics.

Not what I would call stand-up service but it is working. Next time I would look at other manufactures.

MT

Jun 15, 2005 | 06:16 AM

docholiday72tx

Posting Guru

Joined: Jul 2002

Posts: 1,335

Likes: 1

From: waco

I put an MSD 6A box on my truck with a 460 about 3 years ago. I guess I've been lucky because I haven't had any issues with it. Now for the bad news....The only change I saw from putting it on was the almost 300 bucks change to my bill fold. Not much improvement in fuel mileage or performance. I have 2 Ford ignition modules in the garage. When and if the MSD box ever quits, it's replacement will be a factory box.
Doc

Jun 15, 2005 | 09:08 AM

Sycostang67

Lead Driver

Joined: Dec 2002

Posts: 5,491

Likes: 16

From: Kuna ID

My MSD box is in my 67 mustang, going on 2 years without a problem. I think you would be more likely to notice a performance gain installing it in a vehicle that didn't already have an electronic ignition. I noticed my car starts much quicker, and idles smoother. Not sure of any MPG gains, I never really pay attention.

Jun 15, 2005 | 09:19 AM

docholiday72tx

Posting Guru

Joined: Jul 2002

Posts: 1,335

Likes: 1

From: waco

Sycostang, my truck that has the MSD box is a 73 F100. It originaly had points also. I put a duraspark distributor in it and wired it for the regular Ford ignition module, then upgraded (or so I thought) to the MSD box.
Doc

Jun 15, 2005 | 09:47 AM

Sycostang67

Lead Driver

Joined: Dec 2002

Posts: 5,491

Likes: 16

From: Kuna ID

I may end up going the duraspark route with my wifes car, currently just using an ignitor. It already has the control box, I just need to get the correct dizzy. It's a 79 Mercury Capri, used to be a 2.3, but now has a 74 302. The dizzy should be cheaper than an MSD, but I get a discount working at the store so it doesn't hit me as hard. I think I paid about $120 for my MSD. If it didn't change anything, I would pull it and sell it, go back to the duraspark and try to recover some of your loss. At least it's not points.