Pertronics or Duraspark?
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Tuned
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 277
Likes: 21
From: Western Montana
Pertronics or Duraspark?
I'm almost done putting together a 390 long block to replace the destroyed 352 somebody put in my 62 F250. I've searched around a bit and know that a Pertronics system would be easier to install than a Duraspark, but
1. Which one performs better?
2. Which one lasts longer?
3. If I were to go with a Duraspark system, what years should I get it off of?
Thanks for helping a noob to the FE world.
1. Which one performs better?
2. Which one lasts longer?
3. If I were to go with a Duraspark system, what years should I get it off of?
Thanks for helping a noob to the FE world.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 1,529
Likes: 35
From: Kansas
I'm almost done putting together a 390 long block to replace the destroyed 352 somebody put in my 62 F250. I've searched around a bit and know that a Pertronics system would be easier to install than a Duraspark, but
1. Which one performs better?
2. Which one lasts longer?
3. If I were to go with a Duraspark system, what years should I get it off of?
1. Which one performs better?
2. Which one lasts longer?
3. If I were to go with a Duraspark system, what years should I get it off of?
Years ago, I remember doing some ignition work on a '76 or '77 Ford truck with a 360/390 that had a Duraspark in it. I don't know it it would have the optimum spark advance, however.
FTE Leadership Emeritus
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 42,562
Likes: 424
From: Long Island USA
I'd say get the Pertronix if you don't already have a Duraspark wiring harness and distributor, and currently have a points setup. It's much easier to wire in and you don't need to find a place to bolt the Duraspark module in.
You won't have to worry about timing, or anything else, as long as your current POINT distributor is already tuned correctly.
I can't say which is more durable.
If you're really hyped on durability, and go places where you really NEED your vehicle to live, get a spare Pertronix unit, and the tools to replace it, and put them in the glovebox. Same goes for the Duraspark. If you're 4x4'ing in remote places, hunting, whatever, a spare module is always a good idea.
You won't have to worry about timing, or anything else, as long as your current POINT distributor is already tuned correctly.
I can't say which is more durable.
If you're really hyped on durability, and go places where you really NEED your vehicle to live, get a spare Pertronix unit, and the tools to replace it, and put them in the glovebox. Same goes for the Duraspark. If you're 4x4'ing in remote places, hunting, whatever, a spare module is always a good idea.
Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 6,305
Likes: 18
From: Boulder Creek, Ca
Agree, both are an improve'mt over points; goes without saying, trying to get that cold blooded beast started on a winter morning was a pain in the backside. Installed Duraspark ll on the 65, primarily because I was able to purchase components at local Napa auto parts store. Would say they cost about the same. It's my understanding can go with the Pertronics and add an ignition control box later.
Cranky Old Guy
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,562
Likes: 6
From: Raphine, Virginia
If all you want to do is do away with points, Petronics and carry a set of points in the glovebox. For the whole system, I'm partial to the Duraspark II. 76-77 has the blue module. The connectors needed are available at NAPA. Dizzy, module are available in stock at every parts store I deal with.
FTE Leadership Emeritus
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 42,562
Likes: 424
From: Long Island USA
Oh, by the way, I did use a '76 Duraspark on the 390 I built for my highboy. The only thing that made it cold-start better was adding an MSD 6AL multi-spark which a slightly-hotter coil.
So... ? I doubt a Pertronix would help cold-start without a hotter coil.
So... ? I doubt a Pertronix would help cold-start without a hotter coil.
Lead Driver
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 6,305
Likes: 18
From: Boulder Creek, Ca
Forgot to mention, used the original dizzy for exhange and got the discount. Use the larger dizzy cap, not that knowledgable but thought pehaps less likey of any crossover, but the darn thing's expensive. Anyhow, installed in both trucks approx. 4 1/2yrs. ago with no problems.
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Tuned
Joined: Feb 2010
Posts: 277
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From: Western Montana
I think I'll lean toward the Duraspark II from what I've heard about it. Now all I have to do is put one together. I'll need the dist, coil, module, anything else I'm missing
and thanks for all of the great responses!
and thanks for all of the great responses!
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Elder User
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 618
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From: central oregon
i use to run a Mallory unilite dizzy until the eye took a crap and the replacement cost was almost as much as the dizzy cost . so i went with pertronix . i really like it work flawless for about 7 years , then the problems started . i tried alot different fixes but still had same problem . the replacement cost for a new pertronix was out of my budget range so i converted over to the duraspark . i got the dizzy for $47 + core ,got wire harrnes from wrecking yard $10 . i spent a day putting it in and now it runs great
1972 Ford F-250 pictures, photos, videos, and sounds | SuperMotors.net
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