Ignition: Converting to electronic ignition

[David Daoust]

I'm thinking about converting my 64 Daytona to electronic ignition. Can anyone make any recommendations on what might be a good choice for my car?

Thank you.

[Mike Van Veghten]

Crane, Pertronix have drop-in (magnetic type) modules for the stock distributor, Mallory is a complete, new distributor with a Uni-lite module.

All three are prooven, been around a "long time" parts. All three "can" have problems...being that they are made by human hands. I've used all three in past years (not the whole distributor, just the Mallory module) and had no problems with any of them.

Use a three sided coin, see which one pops up..!

Note - The distributor should be checked closely to make sure the advance weights work correctly, the points plate is properly tight, the vacuum advance (if you use it) is working properly, etc., etc., and everything is clean.
The use of "light" mechanical advance springs is also a good investment (cheap..!).

Mike

[raprice]

I've been considering doing the same in my '59 Lark VI. I understand Dave Thiebault has a very good conversion that he sells. I'm considering calling him about it. I think I spelled his name correctly, but if I didn't, I apologize.
I know he advertises in Turning Wheels.
Rog

[David Daoust]

For the record: I have a Prestolite IBP-4108 distributor in the car now. My car has an 8 cylinder 289 engine.

[over50]

There are a lot of threads if you search for discussion on this question. Another option is keeping the stock distributor and points and adding an MSD Capacitive Discharge ignition unit. That is my favorite as it improves the spark.

[StudegaryB]

Be sure to look at the advance weights, springs, and cam plate in that Prestolite distrbutor. They are prone to being worn out and replacement parts are extremely scarce. When they are worn out you have virtually no mechanical advance in the distributor. I believe that the Pertronix module still requires that the original mechanical advance and vacuum advance be operational. The earlier Delco distributors have a much more robust mechanical advance.

[Studebakercenteroforegon]

Be sure to look at the advance weights, springs, and cam plate in that Prestolite distrbutor. They are prone to being worn out and replacement parts are extremely scarce. When they are worn out you have virtually no mechanical advance in the distributor. I believe that the Pertronix module still requires that the original mechanical advance and vacuum advance be operational. The earlier Delco distributors have a much more robust mechanical advance.

Replacement parts for Prestolite distributors are not at all scarce. I stock and sell the greatly improved advance weight sets, which are available to any established Studebaker parts dealer. The new weights are sintered steel with a bronze bushing whereas the original was laminated steel with no bushing - thus would wear at the pivot point. Replacing these weights makes the Prestolite a great distributor.

[Milaca]

Are Pertronix modules available for the single-points Prestolite distributor now? Last time I checked, they were only available for the Avanti dual-points unit.

[StudeRich]

Pertronix Units are no longer available for IBP-4108 Prestolite/Autolite Single Point Stude. V8 Distributor, they were modified Pertronix Units for Mopar? Modified and sold by Crane, but they are out of business.

Reference Pertronix Website:

http://www.pertronix.com/support/ignitor-kit/default.aspx

[JoeHall]

Pertronix Units are no longer available for IBP-4108 Prestolite/Autolite Single Point Stude. V8 Distributor, they were modified Mopar? Units made and sold by Crane, but they are out of business.

Reference Pertronix Website:

http://www.pertronix.com/support/ign...t/default.aspx

I have found Pertronix folks easy to work with. I bet if someone called their tech assistance number, Pertronix would be willing to fabricate a kit for IBP-4108. The primary difference between most of their units is the ignitor mount plate. If someone sent them a set of ignition points, they could probably fab a kit. Just a thought. Alternately, someone could fabricate their own mount plate, after a little research for the correct size Pertronix reluctor. Just ain't that hard to do.

[Studebakercenteroforegon]

As mentioned in post #5, consider a points triggered MSD or Mallory system.

[JoeHall]

As mentioned in post #5, consider a points triggered MSD or Mallory system.

I agree with a CD box, and ran one on a 56J for at least 75,000 miles. Since it takes the current load off the points, they will not burn out. You only have to replace them when the wear block becomes too worn. Plus, of course, they produce a hotter spark. But do not expect any major differences in starting or MPG, because you'll be disappointed. Those claims are often touted as selling points, but after its bought & installed, what is a person gonna do when it just ain't so?

[bezhawk]

Consider the Chrysler electronic guts in the distributor triggering an MSD box. MSD makes a direct plug in interface.

[StudegaryB]

Studebakercenteroforegon,

I've only been able to obtain advance weights for one Prestolite distributor. Do you also have the cam plate assembly and springs? The Prestolites I have have the drive slots in the cam plate severely worn out. It won't do any good to put in new advance weights without a new cam plate.

Gary

[Studebakercenteroforegon]

I find that when installing new advance weights that the pins will follow the slots in the cam plate much better even though there may be wear below the slot features. Then, being a lover of Prestolite distributors, I also have boxes of used distributors and parts, so I have the option of selecting the "best used" parts.