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Electronic ignition conversion

Discussion in 'Vintage (thru 365 GTC4)' started by Bryan, Apr 26, 2004.

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  1. Bryan

    Bryan Formula 3

    Nov 1, 2003
    1,310
    Montrose, Colorado
    #1 Bryan, Apr 26, 2004
    I'm more and more interested in converting the Marelli Dinoplex boxes and distributors to modern electronic ignition.

    What experiences do FChatters have with doing this, especially specific vendors and product models for V-12s in the 250 to 365 engines?

    For example, I see a fair bit of conversions done with MSD 6A boxes. For example,

    recent Daytona discussion
    http://ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15490

    308 replacement
    http://ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4266

    general discussion
    http://ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1644

    However, I would think that the distributor conversion must be specific to the base engine in order for all the bits to fit together.

    I also see people using Crane Cam Fireball systems.
     
  2. james patterson

    james patterson Formula Junior
    Professional Ferrari Technician

    Dec 8, 2003
    417
    Dallas Texas
    Full Name:
    James Patterson
    #2 james patterson, Apr 27, 2004
    Bryan - Very nice looking 365 you have. On the conversions for the older V-12 ignitions - what we have been doing for many years is to remove the points and machine the cam from the distributors and replace with a six pin reluctor wheel and magnetic pick-up. While we do this the distributors are set with a new timing curve (if desired) and matched. The advance mechanism is left original except for adjustments to the curve. You keep the factory cap. Externally the distributors look stock except for the lack of a capacitor. Use the signal to trigger a CD box (we like the MSD 6 series) and install a CD compatable coil. Once the rotor and reluctor phasing are set this is a very reliable set-up. You are more likely to have a problem with the advance mechanism, over the long haul, than the pick-up so the long term reliability is very good. You will also be pleased with the performance improvement you get with the higher voltage ignition. There are other pick-up types available as well as many CD ignitions to choose from, we like the simplicity of the magnetic pick-ups (we use a Chrysler part that can be bought at any autoparts store) and everybody carries MSD.

    Good luck,
    James Patterson
    Norwood Performance
     
  3. Bryan

    Bryan Formula 3

    Nov 1, 2003
    1,310
    Montrose, Colorado
    #3 Bryan, Apr 27, 2004
    James: thanks!! Very nice business that YOU have, by the way!

    Is there the possibility to stage this, i.e. convert from the Marelli ignition boxes to MSD 6, but maintain points and conventional distributor? At a later stage, convert distributor to non-point system.

    I reckon the box conversion is something I could do (given good instructions on the connections), but machining the distributor cam is clearly for the pros.
     

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