Distributor upgrade for 74 1.8L single Weber 32/26 009 Dizzy

[Chaznaster]

I realize that I have what is widely considered to be the worst combination of carb/dizzy in my car. On top of that, the mechanical advance on the 009 is frozen, which I take as a sign to get into a better suited distributor. It is a first step to ultimately going dual carbs but not this driving season.
Having read a ton of threads here and on 914world, I am no more clear on the best option. The 050 option is attractive (I had one on a Beetle years ago and liked it) but cannot seem to find any that are not NOS (expensive). The Pertronix SVDA looks interesting. 1-2-3 and Mallory look like they are over my price range.
I’d appreciate some input on viable options and maybe a tip on where to source a new unit.
Many thanks!

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Check out the 123 Distributor.

https://123ignitionusa.com/

Brand new, no wear, electronic trigger for the spark so no points to wear, and programmable. Some of them are even programmable over Bluetooth...

--DD

[Chaznaster]

Thanks Dave. I went down the 123 rabbit hole today and was pretty convinced. My order just went in for the Bluetooth variety.
Regarding an optimal advance curve for my setup, what would be the right dizzy to emulate?
Then it is a matter of finding the curve for that unit and loading it - correct?

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

I don't know how the adjustment works, just that you can mess with it to your heart's content. There's a recent FB thread discussing timing with a 123. Let me see if I can dig it up.

I don't know if the permissions to share this will let people read it, but here is the thread:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2214816403/


Here is what one person was using for an advance curve on a fairly stock motor:



And here is what Jake Raby had to say about that:

The cam is killing It.. Also, add in some points between 1,000 and 2,000 RPM. You need to be 5* at 500 RPM, 12 degrees at 1,000, and then add points to help transition through the RPM range from 1,000-3,300 RPM

Take all of that as you wish.

--DD

[Chaznaster]

This is super helpful. The data and the FB group.
I cannot wait to start tinkering when the dizzy comes.
Thanks Dave!!

[Chaznaster]

Just checking back in … I did go with the 123. It went in today with no issues. Starts and idles like a dream. Road test tomorrow …
Thanks for the suggestion Dave.