Improving Ignition & Distributor

[Quickstep192]

After chasing some problems that appear to be ignition related, I’m exploring some solutions to
modernize the CDI, distributor and coil.

I currently have the original CDI, the original distributor, Pertronix points and the silver coil.

I think it’s close, but I’m not sure my distributor was ever really properly re-curved when the engine was re-built to 2.7 and converted from MFI to Carbs.

I’d like to have a better solution for points than conventional points, but I think I’d like to have something more robust than Pertronix.

I’m not sure what condition my 47 year old CDI is in, but everything I read seems to indicate that the Classic Retrofit CDI is a solid box and probably infinitely better than my 47 year old unit.

I don’t know what the 1-2-3 Ignition distributor uses for points, but it seems to get solid reviews for its overall performance.

I’m aware that the silver coil is largely considered junk and the black coil from ************ seems to be a worthy replacement.

I know that both the Classic Retrofit CDI and the 1-2-3 Ignition Distributor have the ability to control advance, so I hope that wouldn’t make them incompatible.

That’s a lot of background to ask:

Is switching over to the Classic Retrofit CDI, the 1-2-3 Ignition along with the PartsKlassic a good idea?

[Hx911]

I am going this route it seems. Have ordered the CDI+ (and the fuse panels) already, and the read your post - this alerted me to the123 distributor.
I shot them an email to confirm it would work.
My thought now is well, you do not have to use the advance curves / tunability of the CDI+ if you don't want. Same think - the 123Distributor surely can be programmed to have a 'flat curve'.
End result: no points, and a modern, new CDI, and the ability to recurve, program any way I need.

[fred cook]

Another choice would be to convert to a crank fire system like the Electromotive XDi or similar that does away with the distributor entirely. One of these systems will give you an infinitely adjustable advance curve and an adjustable ignition cutout for high rpm protection. A basic system for a 6 plug engine will probably be somewhere around $1500 and will eliminate the CDI, the coil and the distributor. I have one of these systems on my 3.3SS twin plug engine and have been completely satisfied with it. Check out the systems in the PP parts section.

[Quickstep192]

I’ve written to both and just heard back from 123 indicating that they see no issues.

Seems to me that the 123 could handle the advance and the CDI could manage the rev-limit.

[Hi_Fi_Guy]

I replaced a stock distributor with a 1-2-3 type electronic on my old Devin C sports car and it was the best money I ever spent. I too am thinking 1-2-3 plus CDI+ from Classic Retrofit may be a great solution. Hope to see someone here post experiences o back that up.

[Jonny H]

Originally Posted by Hi_Fi_Guy

Hope to see someone here post experiences o back that up.

Like this?

Project Heavy Metal - an all steel classic, remastered

[dicklague]

I have been running the Daytona-Sensors CD-1 for 12 years with Pertronix and love it. Have rev limiter set @ 6600 rpm.

Good value as oit comes with a matching coil.......a very good coil at that.


Daytona-Sensors CD-1 Capacitive Discharge Ignition System Kit - IG3TECH