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The Petronics Ignitor® II converts the older points-type ignition system on classic cars, to a solid-state electronic ignition system that's completely concealed, providing a stock appearance. The kit includes new micro controller that installs in just a few minutes. Generally, it installs just as easy as changing out the old points, as it only has two wires to hook up! The Petronics Ignitor II fits inside distributor without any alterations. Benefits include extended plug life, improved gas mileage, reduces misfires, quicker starts, and improved engine performance.
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The Ignitor II develops three times more energy between 3000 and 5000 RPM than the original Ignitor. The micro-controller senses current in the coil and automatically adjusts the dwell to maintain peak energy throughout the entire RPM range… providing more energy at high RPM's. Ignition energy is sustained with less heat buildup, which results in extended module and coil life. This also protects the module, coil and other components from heat damage. And it's legal in all 50 states and Canada.
Generally the kit runs about $120 bucks, which cost about the same as a Duraspark conversion. You'll also need a hotter coil, and we recommend upgrading to a set of performance wires as well, to get the best performance from the Petronics ignition. |
The biggest advantage of the Petronics ignition, other than increasing power and reliability over the old point style ignition, is that it keeps the ignition system looking completely stock. Not only is this very important if your trying to keep your six in it's original condition, it's required if you are doing a concours restoration.
While the Petronics Ignition is light years ahead of the old points style distributor, it does have it's drawbacks. One such drawback and a major one in our opinion, is that if the unit fails it can not be repaired. If your on a road trip, you could wind up spending your time sitting on the side of the road, instead of cruising, as most parts stores don't stock the Petronics unit needed for an inline six application. More than likely you'll have to order it online and wait for it to show up, unless you pay extra for overnight shipping. Either way, it's a huge inconvenience. As such, we recommend keeping an extra one in your glove box, especially if you take a lot of road trips, or if you depend on your vehicle as a daily driver.
The other potential drawback is using the stock distributor. The early "Load-O-Matic" distributors (60-67), which were designed for simplicity and economy rather than performance, had no provisions for mechanical advance. Instead they relied solely on a relatively weak vacuum signal to sense changes in load and speed (rpm). As such, these distributors were very slow to provide spark advance when the engine was accelerated under load, making them a poor choice for the performance enthusiast. While the Petronics Ignition may improve spark quality, your still stuck with the poor operation of the "Load-O-Matic" distributor. You're also limited on carb choice, as you'll need a carb that's equipped with a "Spark Control Valve", such as the Autolite 1100. Bottom line, if you want to improve throttle response and performance, and your not concerned with appearance, ditch the "Load-O-Matic" distributor, in favor of a late model or aftermarket distributor with mechanical advance. For more information, please see our tech article on the Load-O-Matic distributor and the Spark Control Valve.
In Summary
If your doing a stock or contours restoration, the Petronics is the only way to go. But if you are looking for an increase in performance and reliability, and your not concerned with appearance or originality, we recommend either the Duraspark II or the DUI ignition systems. If your still not sure, talk with other owners that have upgraded their ignition systems and get their opinions, before you decided which ignition system best suits your needs and budget. |
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