Ignition: MSD6AL or Crane HI6 ?

cowtown · 03-15-2003, 06:18 PM

I'm trying to decide between these two units for a '77 930 engine. Costwise, it's about the same:
MSD6AL, Blaster High Vibration Coil = $235
HI-6, LX92 Coil Kit = $220

Featurewise, they look like they are about the same size, and they both offer multiple spark and rev limiter.

I'm leaning toward the Crane because it has an adjustable rev limiter on the unit instead of the "pills". I could set the Crane for a 6200RPM cutoff. With the MSD, I would probably use the included 6000RPM pill, or maybe buy another (higher) one later.

Can anyone help me make up my mind on this? I'm open to any advice. Thanks!

TurboRuf · 03-15-2003, 06:56 PM

Many people on this board have recommended the MSD 6AL’s. I have a set of 6AL’s installed in my twin-plugged 930 and have been very happy with their quality/performance. My only complaint with the MSD’s is that they are a little big.

Do a search on MSD and you will find a ton of information on this board.

Chuck Moreland · 03-15-2003, 07:22 PM

I think you'll find the MSD is a more tested/proven configuration. That's not to say the Crane isn't good, just that you will find more people who can give you tips on the MSD.

I've installed two and been very happy.

cowtown · 03-15-2003, 07:30 PM

Chuck, if you installed the MSD into your '77, did you need the tach adapter? My chassis and tach are '75.
Colin

Chuck Moreland · 03-15-2003, 09:14 PM

I haven't put one in my '77. I have one in my '73, not adapter needed.

It seems the need for tach adapter is hit or miss, some do some don't.

H20911 · 03-15-2003, 11:41 PM

They are both good and I have had them both but I like the crane for the features

Formerly Steve Wilkinson · 03-16-2003, 05:16 AM

I have the MSD 6s on a twin-plugged '83 SC, and since they were specified for me by Steve Weiner of Rennsport, I happily assume they are the class act.

Stephan

cowtown · 03-16-2003, 08:08 AM

Thanks for the replies everyone. This is starting to look like a can't-go-wrong either way kind of situation. More people using the MSD, but also some are happy with the Crane. Not making my decision any easier!

H20911- When you mention features, are you talking about specific features that the HI-6R model gives you? Unless I'm mistaken, the only extra feature on the HI-6 model I'm looking into is the adjustable rev limiter.

Thanks,
Colin

911pcars · 03-16-2003, 09:44 AM

Not sure this is a distinct advantage for Crane's unit, but they claim their ign. boxes are fully "potted" to avoid vibration damage whereas the MSD units are not (hand wired circuit boards?). Also compare the manuf. recommendations for mounting near "high" temperature areas.

Some of the Crane units (e.g. Hi-6S) are physically smaller. This allows more options for mounting and access to the rev limiter. The Accel ignition box is smaller than either Crane's or MSD's. They all have multiple spark <3000 rpm.

Sherwood Lee
http://members.rennlist.org/911pcars

rudy sanchez · 03-16-2003, 09:59 AM

crane cams has a comparison on their site. I've used the crane products on my bmw 2002tii before and was pleased.

http://www.cranecams.com/whatsnew/hi6vsmsd.htm

rudy sanchez · 03-16-2003, 10:02 AM

also, they have a promotion to give the coil for free w/ a hi6 system

http://www.cranecams.com/freecoil.htm

and

http://store.yahoo.com/cranecams/index.html

jtkkz · 03-16-2003, 07:18 PM

I have a MSD 6AL installed on my 1973 911.

47silver · 47silver's Garage

msd6al on the 75 targa no problems po installed

cowtown · 03-16-2003, 07:37 PM

47silver, did you require the MSD Tach Adapter for your tach to work?
Thanks,
Colin

911pcars · 08:40 PM

The Hi-6S in my car ('69 911).

Sherwood Lee
http://members.rennlist.org/911pcars

Now I've gotta find a place for their coil.

47silver · 47silver's Garage

colin
i did not install it the previous owner did but i do not have the tach adapter