009 vs 050 Distributor

[thomaslee]

I have "reaserched" the topic - too much. Now I am in a quandry. I want to go to Elect. ignition, and can not - with my present distrubitor ( 031) I must change to a 009 or 050. I have seen and heard -- one is better that the other - untill I am really not sure of wich one to change to. My questlion therefore is = Does anyone know the differences between the two - and which would be best. Thanks

[NY65912]

It is a matter of the advance curve, I have a 050 on my Maestro massaged engine (recommended, tested and tuned by the Maestro himself). The 009 has less overall advance if I am not mistaken. I run Compufire in my 2 other aircooled engines and must say that they start up really fast as compared to points and are real smooth. Just giving you my 2¢. Cheers.

[69 Soft Targa]

The advance is too short on a 009 / @21 degrees. Would be too far advanced at idle.

The 050 will give you 27 deg. advance, about right however it's in a straight line.

031 was designed for the engine with an advance curve.

I use 050's but would like to experience an 031... just don't have one.

Check out previous post "Distributor Question..." on pg.3

(Sorry, haven't learned to insert hyperlink)

Keep The 912 Faith

[craign]

I have an 009 and notice it will burn through a set of regular points a bit quicker than I expected. A switch to heavy duty points took care of that.

Other than that I have no compaints with the 009.

[Green 912]

IMHO If you want to go to electronic and cannot modify the 031 use the 050. The 009 has an incorrect advance for the 912 motor. It will work and can be set up so the motor will start and idle well but it starts to advance early and does not advance far enough at high RPMs. Damage can occur if the motor is pushed at high RPMs. The 009 can cause eventual combustion component failure if pushed.

I use 050s as they are inexpensive and easy to find in good condition unlike the 031. For the type of use my motor gets, on the track and ether WOT at near max RPM or under threshold braking, the flat advanse profile isen’t a problem. I would think that for street driving the 031, if you have one in hand, is best but the 050 works well.

BTW If you go with a different dist. I would be happy to relieve you of the leftover 031.

[69 Soft Targa]

050

Never supplied by Porsche nor designed for the 356/912 engine. Can be used if non-original appearance is not a problem. PRO: has reduced advance range, ideal for today's lower octane gas. CON: advance curve is not ideal for356/912; engine will be less responsive below 3,000 rpm.


009

Widely used as a VW replacement, especially in modified engines. Maximum advance range is only about 20 degrees. Suitable for use in 356/912 ONLY with hot camshaft of higher duration, which needs initial advance of 10-12 degrees. Not suitable for any 356/912 engine with stock cam. Sometimes advertised as suitable for use with Weber carbs, which is incorrect unless hot cam is also used.


031

I agree with post by "Green 912". Use it if you can.