Electronic ignition conversions are often used when you're updating an existing engine; those building new mills are more likely to buy aftermarket electronic distributors. What makes an aftermarket electronic distributor better than that junkyard find? For starters, you get an all-new part, one that hasn't endured millions of revolutions and sparks. Quality aftermarket distributors also feature sturdy new housings, fresh bushings-or, better yet, ball bearings-and smooth mechanical and vacuum advance mechanisms. Many aftermarket distributors are also more compact than OEM parts, especially compared to GM's bulky HEI. This can make a real difference on space-challenged hot rods.
Mallory's Mike Golding gives solid advice for assembling a new system: start with a quality, stand-alone electronic distributor and matched coil that don't require ignition box controls. You can always add a CD box, he says, but a stand-alone distributor will get you home should the box have problems and need to be unplugged on the road. Vacuum advance is another plus on the street. Good examples include Mallory's 42-Series Comp SS and 85-Series HEI distributors, MSD's Ready-to-Run line, and the Flame-Throwers from Pertronix. Surprisingly, such distributors are available for more mills than you'd expect. Mallory's Unilite and MSD's Ready-to-Run cover applications ranging from Y-block Fords and flatheads to early Hemis and Buick nailheads.
Just can't fight that urge to look racy? How about a fake magneto? Offered by both Vertex and Joe Hunt, magneto-look electronic distributors can be had for cool vintage mills like Hemis and nailheads, not to mention typical small-block Chevy and Ford fare. Internal coils and self-contained electronics make them look very convincing.
Charging OnWe've covered a lot of ground in a little space and there's still more we could add-the importance of quality plug wires, adequate charging systems, and multiple ground straps, for instance. Those topics will have to wait, but hopefully we've imparted enough advice to make you a smarter spark shopper. Naturally, the manufacturers' tech lines and Web sites are good resources for learning more about ignitions and specific products. We'd also recommend Todd Ryden's new book, How To Build High-Performance Ignition Systems, from CarTech. Armed with the right information, you'll have little problem giving your powerplant the shock that it needs.