Flathead Electronic Distributor
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Senior User
Joined: Jul 2006
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From: Peterborough, Ontario
Flathead Electronic Distributor
I am going to change my flathead to 12 volts and use electronic ignition, there are several aftermarkets ones for sale and there are also plans to make one out of a Chysler or GM distributor. Anyone have some good experiences and or plans to build one.
Thanks
Thanks
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
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From: NM
I was going to use either a MoPar or Chev distributor modified to fit. I really like the simplicity and robustness of the MoPar electronic systems, but you have to take the "points plate" apart to work on the weights. The Chev distributor is very robust and the centrifugal advance is right on top. The Chev also needs the least machine work. In the end, as Havi suggests, I decided I didn't want to get a machinist lined up and pay for the work, so I "wrote a check" and got a MSD ready-to-run unit. It uses the Chev weights and vacuum advance, but I believe it has a Ford trigger assembly. At any rate, all commonly available parts.
Here are some pics; a modified MoPar unit and a modified Chev unit. Another thing you can see is that the MoPar unit doesn't support the shaft as well as the Chev.
Here are some pics; a modified MoPar unit and a modified Chev unit. Another thing you can see is that the MoPar unit doesn't support the shaft as well as the Chev.
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Senior User
Joined: Jul 2006
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From: Peterborough, Ontario
Thanks, it looks like the old Visa card will look after this one. I thought the Chevy would be a better option but it also has a larger cap and looks more out of place on a flathead. I think the Mallroy looks more like a stock unit than any.
Thanks again
Thanks again
Senior User
Joined: Feb 2006
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From: cleveland,Oh.
Just my $.02 worth If you buy the unilite you should also purchase the power filter too. This little box will prevent voltage spikes, voltage spikes will roast your module. New modules are $90 the power filter is $35 just some cheap insurance. your probably going to need a ballast resistor too.
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Elder User
Joined: Nov 2008
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From: Gunbarrel, Co.
I like the MSD plug and play because of it's clean design easy set-up. Disclaimer here is that I've only seen my engine run for 20 min. or so.
http://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gall...210525.520.390
http://www.ford-trucks.com/user_gall...210525.520.390
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Post Fiend
Joined: May 2008
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From: Poway, Ca.
I like the MSD plug and play because of it's clean design easy set-up. Disclaimer here is that I've only seen my engine run for 20 min. or so.
www.ford-trucks.com/user_gallery/tmp/210/210525.520.390
www.ford-trucks.com/user_gallery/tmp/210/210525.520.390
Post Fiend
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 5,776
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From: springfield il
i am still trying to find time too wander up to my eldest daughters , and the son in law and i are gonna chuck a chev in the lathe etc. and give it a whirl . i found a new distributor from pro comp , an electronic unit that has a box and coil , the dizzy is 90 , the box 110 , the coil 40 sum . sent 'em an email too find out wether my converted generator will be able to feed it . i know some don't care for the ones with an ignition box required , but i ran the stuff on the sportsman dirt cars with no issue so ...................... i'm prolly gonna buy it if it works out .
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Senior User
Joined: Jul 2006
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From: Peterborough, Ontario
Thats another issue that comes up, generator or alternator. I am also running a converted 12 volt generator. Is there a problem with the electronic ignition and a generator supply, should be cleaner DC than an alternator. Electronic ignition should only draw around 2 amps or so.
thanks
thanks
Post Fiend
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 5,776
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From: springfield il
i would't think their would be an issue but i figured i'd ask 'em before i bought just in case . i tend to go off and do things without thinking so i'm trying to be smart
.............. thats probably why there's smoke in the air , i'm attempting to use my brain ................
.............. thats probably why there's smoke in the air , i'm attempting to use my brain ................
Fleet Owner
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 27,283
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From: NM
Generators are a problem. Once they are producing power, they are fairly clean, but when speed drops to idle, there is a spike when the cutout relay opens, and vice versa when you speed up. That is what used to take out Pertronix 6v kits.
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