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How it`s done articles for the do it yerselfer
from the classic Mustang specialist.
Installing Electronic Ignition ''PERTRONIX IGNITOR'' :
Some of the most common
complaints from owners of classic vehicles is poor performance or "engine miss."
Fuel mileage and hard starting are other concerns.
Many factors may contribute to these conditions, however in my opinion old fashioned
points, or breaker type ignition is the first place to check!
Without having any mechanical or moving parts the IGNITOR has the advantage of
delivering a much more consistant spark. Dwell and ign. timing remain constant.
The beauty of the IGNITOR is in it's simplicity to install while maintaining
a stock appearance. Cost is a paltry $69 from SHASTA MUSTANG SUPPLY.
Made in California, the IGNITOR carries a 30 month guaranty!!!! I've installed
plenty (for about $25) and have NEVER had one fail.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS for the PERTRONIX
IGNITOR
standard screwdriver, 5/16 wrench, wire crimping pliers, wire cutting pliers
INSTALLATION (about 20 minutes)
Without the engine running, pop off the distributer cap retaining clips, remove
cap (not your hat) leave spark plug wires intact. Pull off the rotor. Inspect these
things.
Remove points and condenser mounting screws . A magnetized screwdriver works
well, DON'T DROP SCREWS into the distributer cavity!
Remove distributer lead wire at coil negative terminal (the wire that ''feeds"
the points). Pull the grommet through the distributer case. Remove points assembly.
Take your IGNITOR, instruction sheet, magnetic ring, and the bag of goodies out
of the box. Read the propaganda and study the instructions.
The wires have a grommet that fits most distributers, if yours has the small
hole, gently squeeze the connector ends to facilitate passing through the opening
. Locate holes on breaker plate and attach magnetic pick-up using longer screw (provided).
Wires go to the coil. The red wire goes to coil positive (the ignition switch side),
black to coil negative .
Slip magnetic ring over rotor shaft on distributer, adjust gap using plastic
feeler gauge. (included).
This would be a good time to check the spark advance diaphragm.
Suck on vacuum tube to determine if it holds vacuum and moves breaker plate. If found
to be bad, replace with a new unit and adjust with small allen wrench to specs as
per instruction sheet.
Replace the rotor and distributer cap.
Start the engine. I recommend checking ignition timing (6-12 btc initial) idle
speed, and fuel mixture adustments.
Take your machine on a long and satisfying test drive!
. Dave