6 replies to this topic

[daler63]

Hi guys Im new to this forum and I hope someone has some good news.I just replaced the second electronic ignition module in 5 years and my mechanic tells me its common for the replacements to go out that often and I should just keep a spare in the tool box.
The last one was an Echlund from NAPA not a discount part.Is there a high performance model out there that doesnt cost a fortune and lasts better?Im driving a 78 F100 351 with stock ignition other than an Accel super coil.The problem started before I put in the coil.
Dale

Edited by daler63, 29 April 2005 - 03:43 PM.

[highboy73]

i bought a supposed hipo one a few years ago,don't remember if it was jegs or summit had to be one of them thou.haven't had any probs with it at all.
yeah i carry an extra just in case too.oh yeah and the box was a ford motorsport product.

[BlackFord77]

Actually, most of the time the ignition boxes never occur ANY problems,. The problems should be searched out elsewhere. The easiest way to see if the problem is ignition related is to (first check where the wires go so you remember how to put them back) pull all the plug wires but one off the spark plugs but one, and ground all these 7. The last one- pull off and remove its spark plug. Connect the plug into the plug wire out of the block. Remove all the rest of the plugs. Now hold the bottom of the plug against the motor block but not in the spark plug hole so that you can see the spark from the spark plug. Stay clear of the engine belts and fan and have someone turn the key and hold it on start for a few revolutions (remember to clean the grounding spot you're using down to metal) and if you see a blue flame it's not the ignition unless you blew one of your other spark plugs or something busted inside your distributor cap. If you have orange flame- try gapping your plugs a little tighter or check your coil. Other ignition troubles- someone wired something in where it shouldn't be in the wiring harness, ignition brain box (the one in the dash) missing or crappily jump wired (though missing), ignition switch shot to he** cause there's too many keys on your key ring, or simply one bad wire. If you have blue flame check your fuel filter. Over time a dirty gas tank can clog the fuel filter even the day after you replaced the filter, especially with the old in-carb types. Also, using non-stock parts with stock parts is a bad idea. Besides- why ruin your stock motor with racing ignition parts? Hotter ignitions can ruin stock internal engine parts. Be sure to research your modifications before you slap them on so you don't have to learn the hard way what can go wrong. Stock Ford systems may not work with non-stock parts and no matter how much better they say they are- racing parts can be a real expensive pain in the a**. If you need better than stock- try it from the manufacturer and ask questions on their tech line at: www.fordracing.com/performanceparts

[Slomar]

I had the same problem with my 76. The wiring is a nightmare, and I'm too lazy to redo it. I got a D.U.I. distributor and it kicks ace. Davis Unified Ignition, if you haven't heard of it. Its a little pricey though. It takes all those wires and funny boxes including the coil, and leaves you with just 2 wires to the distributor. Very Nice.

[DaveP]

I just replaced the ignition module in my 77 f-150 this weekend. I ran several electrical tests on the coil, stator, and determined it was the module. Replaced it and the truck started right up and runs like a gem, finally. I purchased mine from Schucks for about $30.00 and it comes with a 5 year limited warranty. I have no idea about the quality of the box is, but $30 over five years isn't a bad price.

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[miesk5]

I had the same problem with my 76. The wiring is a nightmare, and I'm too lazy to redo it. I got a D.U.I. distributor and it kicks ace. Davis Unified Ignition, if you haven't heard of it. Its a little pricey though. It takes all those wires and funny boxes including the coil, and leaves you with just 2 wires to the distributor. Very Nice.

Slomar, I agree! the Davis unit is one of the best.

[RawkDawg]

The best thing you can do is shit can the Ford DuraSpark crap and replace it with a converted HEI distributor from a Chevy......one wire hook up and your off and running.

No more headaches with burnt out boxes....hotter spark and better spark control.