MSD Ignition: Question
 

I am considering the MSD ignition control for my 1980 SC. I would like to know what would be the best set up for this kind of upgrade. I also read about the Nology wires. I welcome your suggestions on how to proceed.

Thanks,

New Porsche owner

MSD Conversion
 

First of all, if the Bosch unit is working properly, don't change it. The main thing that the MSD will do is to provide for a better, smoother idle. If, however, the Bosch CDI is having "issues", then the MSD is the way to go. I also have a 1980 SC and I installed an MSD 6A unit some time ago (about 3 years). Since my car already had an alternator with the internal regulator, I was able to rotate the rear window defrost relay 90 degrees and make room for the 6A to mount in a horizontal position. Also, by using crimp on male connectors, I was able to simply plug the 6 wires into the master plug. This will allow me to go back to the Bosch unit later very easily if desired. The only two wires that go elsewhere are the ground wire and the main power wire. I ran the ground wire to the chassis and to the engine just to make certain that I had a good ground. The main power wire comes off the starter power lead, runs thru a fuse and then to the MSD unit. You should be able to wire the tach without having to use a tach adapter. I also replaced the stock coil with an MSD blaster coil which I mounted in the stock position on the fan shroud. The plastic electrical cover still mounts properly and covers all but a small amount of the forward end of the MSD. Good luck with your installation!

Agree with Fred. Strongly suggest you also install new 8.5 mm spark plug wires, and insulate the large red positive wire from the starter by threading it through some tubing like fuel line, as it is always "live".