I am finally ready to install a new ignition on my 87 Ram w/318 and would like your opinions on the best path to take. It currently has the original spark computer feeding the original distributor. This setup works pretty well, but it's old and I want to convert it to a more conventional setup. Here are my options:
1) Convert to the Mopar Electronic Ignition using the Mopar kit.
2) Convert to HEI using a vacuum adv distributor and GM Module.
3) Install a vacuum adv distributor and one of the ignition boxes available from MSD, Summit, etc
My goal is to have a rock solid ignition that gives optimal advance and spark for my near stock setup. No drag racing or anything exotic, just a solid everyday driver that needs to get the most out of every drop of fuel. And I'm on a budget. Thanks for any replies!
ramitupurs84
06-08-2008, 10:39 PM
#2...it's easy. It works, cheaper then the mopar ignition garbage after the intial investment i.e. parts.
Speed Dragon
06-09-2008, 02:56 PM
Phooey on GM junk :) Go MSD 6A and regular Mopar vacuum advance dizzy.
76D100
06-09-2008, 05:12 PM
ive had no problems with the gm parts, its cheep, easy and works well.
ramitupurs84
06-09-2008, 09:22 PM
$40 blaster coil and what $20 HEI module? Verus busting up a MSD deal?
Eggman
06-13-2008, 07:06 PM
Hey Speed I wanna do just that an MSD 6A hooked up to my mopar dist.Will this give any noticable improvements?
Delray Dude
06-18-2008, 10:53 AM
Wow...
going to do the same thing sometime soon....
I have two options I'm looking at - input always welcome.
I have a vacuum advance mopar dizzy i had on a 340 (was in a 73 Runner) Runner got destroyed and my buddy needed a 340 to put in his '69 Dart GTS, I kept my dizzy - was working a few years ago should be fine - been sitting in the garage.
I have the wiring and stock mopar 4 prong ignition that was in my Cordoba (Cordoba had a MSD 6-AL in her now).... I could throw that all in and be done with it...
or...
I was going through my garage and "found" another MSD 6 AL box (was in formor roomate's m*stang he pulled it out for a MSD 7 and well the 6-al has been sitting since (plus he owes me money).
THinking I might wanna drop the mopar dizzy in and hook up the MSD.
I'd like to mount the box inside the cab - just gotta find a good spot to do it...I mounted the 6-AL in the glove box of the Cordoba - real nice and outta the way but easy to add the rev chip when needed.
bherder
06-18-2008, 02:37 PM
Well, y'all know what I'm voting for... :D
B-300
06-18-2008, 04:34 PM
At least option #1 has centrifigual advance also.
This gives you a combination of advance methods.
1. Advance vs RPM. (Centrifigual)
2. Advance vs load. (Vacumm)
A vacumm only distributor will also do advance vs rpm if the carb is undersized and starts to choke the engine leading to power loss.
