Distributor question
 

I’m close to getting my race motor done(BBC stocker) and was looking for some advice about distributors. Right know I have an Accel duel point. Is there any benefits/power gain by going to electronic distributor? I have never had any problem with the Accel. So do I buy a new distributor or use the Accel. I would have a use for the Accel if I bought a new distributor. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks Brett

Re: Distributor question
 

Just one man's opinion, but a points-type distributor will never give you the accuracy a more modern, electronic distributor will. One advantage to the dual-point unit was that you could widen the dwell between the point-sets to increase the spark-duration and coil saturation. A well prepared H.E.I. or other modern distributor, with the addition of a multiple-spark ignition system, will be able to do that and so much more. Add in the increased maintenance of the older distributor, and I think you'll be much happier with an electronic unit.

Lew

Re: Distributor question
 

A new electronic distributor coupled with a good MSD box will be worth the cost due to the better cranking, less problems with sparkplug fouling, and no problems with points. I fought a point distributor before going the MSD route. I would never go back. Even though you can use one set of points to trigger the MSD, you don't want having a set of points getting out of adjustment or failing to fire.

Re: Distributor question
 

I can't imagine a BBC budget Stocker, but you can use what you have for now.
As Richard said, use one set of points to trigger the MSD ,no condensor, no springs..The point drag will bring the advance back for starting purposes.
I've run Accel points up to 8400 with no problem. Just check the gap every once in a while.
The points won't pit , but the rubbing block will wear a little.

Re: Distributor question
 

Adjusting points....you guys are giving me flashbacks filled with feeler gauges and dwell meters.

Re: Distributor question
 

Still have my dwell meter, Jim.

It doesn't take long on a GM vehicle.
Even if it gets off a little in this scenario, it really doesn't matter as long as you compensate with the timing.

Re: Distributor question
 

Dwell affects timing....timing does not affect dwell....that's a mantra from the past!
I wouldn't worry about using that Accel dual-point. In fact it's probably a good starting point. Get the car running and ad the MSD (or whatever) later. The dual point will be fool proof. As we all know, electronic ignitions are not always fool proof. One less thing to worry about for now.

Re: Distributor question
 

toyota ran points thru an electonic box years ago, the points lasted forever, just keep the rubbing block lubed, but my question is, if you run both points,will it still increase dwell?