CDI vs Coil/Points Ignition
 

I am the new owner of a 72 911E. Car is basically stock. Previous owner removed a Permatune CDI (claims not working) and is now just running a stock generic coil and points distributor. My plugs keep fouling which I took to be either the lack of the hot air hose to the MFI or just too rich a mixture. Do I need to go back to a CDI? Why? I've searched the archives for an answer, but didn't find something right on target. Thanks.

Kurt,

Does the previous owner still have the OEM Bosch coil for the CDI system? If so, please get it back, if possible!

I would recommend going back to the Bosch CDI or Perma-Tune system for the simple reason that it works very well and doesn't have or cause the fouling problem you are experiencing currently ... that is why it was introduced in 1969, and used through 1989 production Turbo models! Occdasionally used Bosch CDI units can be found on eBay ... I have seen them go for $40-$60! A Perma-Tune can be found new for under $200, and would be one way to go.

Incidentally, Porsche used the same CDI-system on several of the factory race cars during the late '60's and early '70, the 'glory days' of endurance sports car racing! Some of the models included 906's, 907's, 910's, 908's, 914-6GT's, 911RSR's, and of course, ALL of the fabulous 917's!!! I don't recall ever hearing of a race being lost due to CDI-system problems!

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Warren Hall
1973 911S Targa