drag race engine ignition systems
 

Lately several post on message boards have talked about ignition systems designs with a problem of "retard" as RPM increases, thus, hurting performance.

So, Let's talk about proven drag race engine ignition systems. Specifically, carburetor, high compression combinations running at least 7800 -8200 RPM's

What has proven, long term to be effective, no tricks, no latest deal, just stable, reliable service.

In addition, lets talk about distributor vs crank trigger usage.

I will enjoy hearing about your on track, real world experience.

Re: drag race engine ignition systems
 

Larry-- The ignition systems that are on the market today for the most part are good pruducts--they all have their own ideosyncrasies. I think that most of the problem with retarding has to do with the natural tendency for the timing chain and cam as well as the distributor to "stretch/flex" as the rpm increases...I have always found that the "proper" way to set the timing is to gradually increase the rpm to an acceptable level say 5-6000 rpm and then check the timing----DO not zing the engine because if you watch the timing it will advance or retard as you are doing this and looking at it---Dont belive me hook up a timing light and try for yourself---Set/check the timing sorta in the RPM range you will be operating and you will have less problems---Comp 387

Re: drag race engine ignition systems
 

Most aftermarket Ign. systems use a "time based" way of operation, basically it sees the trigger then creates it's coil trigger a set time from the input. There are systems that use actual crankshaft position to base their triggering but they need a more precise way of knowing where the crank is in it's rotation ie. multi toothed crank wheel.The later system has been used for many years now on new vehicles to more precisely control both fuel and spark.There are many aftermarket companies who make these type setups they are a bit more complex, however they do work very well. Joe