I have read a lot about MSD ignitions on this board and everyone seems to like them after installed. But there is one thing that I was wondering about that really didn't get answered in other posts. My question is this: When you install a MSD ignition, does it do away with the stock ignition module? If not, wouldn't you still have reliability problems because of this weak link? I have had my 86 F150 w/302 efi for almost a year and have already had to replace the ignition module about six months after I bought it. Thoughts and experiences are appreciated. Thanks.

Kyfordman

 

Try this www.msdignition.com



Wiz

 

> does it do away with the stock ignition module?

If you are talking about the TFI module that goes onto the distributor, I do not believe anyone including Jacobs replaces it. So, you can go spend $400 for an ignition upgrade and still get stuck with a $30 piece of junk module blowing out. The weak link in any ECC-IV or V system.

 

Thats what I thought. I guess the best thing to do is upgrade your coil with the MSD unit and then look for a good quality TFI module. I see that Holley is making TFI modules for the Fords. I may look into this setup. Thanks for the reply Rebocardo.

Kyfordman

 

I don't really notice a difference with the MSD ignition or with the MSD coil. I guess the question is, "How big a match is needed to ignite the explosion?"

there are some pros, and no real cons, but I didn't notice the difference.

Just a thought.

 

I'm not really expecting to gain a lot of power out of replacing the ignition module and coil. I'm leaning more towards reliability. That is why I had ask if the ignition module is taken out of the loop with the MSD Ignition setup. Now that I see that the module stays, I'm just going to try to find the most reliable setup. I do appreciate the thought. Thanks.

Kyfordman

 

help me out guys should i spend the 50 dollar difference to get a msd offroad ignition instead of the 6a! i know the offroad ignition is armored against harsh conditions but im not going to be offroad all the time, will this decrease gas mileage or something. im stupid help me out.

 

The only difference between the 6A and the offroad 6-series is that they use an extra coat of sealant on the circuitboard, and they provide rubber mounts, to protect from excess vibration. You don't need either. If it makes you feel better, just get some little rubber o-rings, and install a 6A box with them touching the mounting spot if you're really worried about vibration. The 6A box is very well armoured against any realistic conditions you're gonna put it through. It's as reliable as your stock module, by the way. Spend that $50 on a couple cases of beer, you'll get more out of it! TK

'77 F100, 302 (the aftermarket Prodigy), C4
Cadet Second Lieutenant John F. Daly III
South Carolina Corps of Cadets, The Citadel
The TorqueKing

 

alright, are there any other wires that i need to purchase? im getting it all off summit racing and want to make sure that i have everything at the time of installation, thanks for the help

 

do i need to get the ford tfi wiring harness or the universal one im confused?

 

The 12v lead to the battery is always too short, so you'll need to get a roll of 12 gage wire from any parts store ($1.99), and some solderless connections are a must ($.99), and make sure you have a good set of wire crimping pliers ($4.99), or make sure you're handy with a pocket knife. everything else will hook up fine. The TFI is nothing but an E-core coil, which still has a + and - primary circuit, and a single post for the secondary circuit (spark plug wires), it should hook up fine to the 6A box and the included harness. I also like picking up a couple packages of that 1/2" plastic conduit to cover up the wires, it makes the setup look really clean.

'77 F100, 302 (the aftermarket Prodigy), C4
Cadet Second Lieutenant John F. Daly III
South Carolina Corps of Cadets, The Citadel
The TorqueKing

 

thanks for the help, i plan to put it in tomorrow, how long does it take with the harness and all the tools? im pretty handy with splicing wires and such.

 

If you're handy with wiring, there's no reason you can't be done in an hour and a half. Maybe 2 hours depending on how detailed you are. I managed to run every wire in conduit, and spent plenty of time drilling the holes for the box, and spent 4 hours. I'm meticulous to the point where I'm wasting time though. TK

'77 F100, 302 (the aftermarket Prodigy), C4
Cadet Second Lieutenant John F. Daly III
South Carolina Corps of Cadets, The Citadel
The TorqueKing

 

it took my 20 minutes to install it, didnt make it pretty just put it in. the harness really really saved alot of times, engine runs alot smoother and i can feel quicker throttle response. i agree that this is the best mod you can do to your truck!