'53 Commander Starliner

[bezhawk]

Not many Delco distributors have the nylon wire hold down intact anymore.

[mbstude]

Took it out for a 50 mile run. Got a little wet.

[rockne10]

Never fear a little rain. They don't melt.

[Buzzard]

It was amazing how well we survived with 12 " wiper blades and now they invent 28 " units to accomplish the same thing.
Bill

[mbstude]

A month or so ago a member of the Stude truck forum posted a link to the Winterburn Capacitor Discharge Ignition system website. - https://www.capacitordischargeignition.com


I've never had any problems when running a set of points, so I've avoided aftermarket ignition systems that eliminate them. And while points-triggered CD ignition systems are nothing new, they aren't too common anymore.

After reading through the Winterburn webpage, reading posts on other forums about it (the Porsche 356 and VW guys love these things), and exchanging several emails with Mr Winterburn, the more it seemed like a worthy upgrade. I went ahead and purchased a 6V unit for the '53 Commander and a 12V unit for the '62 Lark.

I thought the '53 ran fine before, but the CDI has made it a different car. The engine starts up a little quicker, it runs smoother overall, and it pulls a bit harder when you put your foot into it. With only 120 HP, any improvement is noticeable and every little bit helps.

Despite going through both the fuel and ignition systems, one problem that has remained constant is a slight, but annoying, "sputter" during hard acceleration. The CDI has eliminated the sputter entirely.

I hid the unit inside the glove box which gave me a straight shot through the firewall for the wiring. With the wires wrapped, I'd be surprised if anyone ever notices.

So far I'm not seeing any downside. High quality, hand made, and designed to work within the parameters of what the car is. I'm happy with it.

[M-Webb]

Matt, what are the primary advantages to this over the original points, and over a modern electronic ignition? I guess my question is why spend all the money on this, why is it worth that? Looks cool and sounds like it is worth it though. But I just don't know anything about it to be honest.

[StudeRich]

Yes, you gotta wonder What CD, Std. and Off do ?
It sounds like a way to bi-pass the system, turn it on, or an engine Kill switch ?

[r1lark]

Rich, I assume you are talking about the switch on the box. CD would be the capcitive discharge in service, Std most likely puts the car back on just the regular points (ie, no CD). The Off I'm not sure..............

I have several Tiger CDI boxes, basically brand new, and plan to put one on my '64 Daytona. Really looking forward to getting this done after hearing what Matt said about his Winterburn system.

[poweroptions]

Your car is beautiful!!!