V8 -- does the single distributor mod reduce fire odd? | FerrariChat
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V8 -- does the single distributor mod reduce fire odd?

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by GrigioGuy, Apr 28, 2004.

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  1. GrigioGuy

    GrigioGuy Splenda Daddy
    Lifetime Rossa Owner

    Nov 26, 2001
    33,340
    E ' ' '/ F
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    Splenda Daddy
    #1 GrigioGuy, Apr 28, 2004
    Greetings.


    One of the concerns with the US setup is the fear of frying the car with a dead bank. Does converting to an alternate setup reduce that chance?

    What would be a recommended solution for an updated ignition system, and what have you all used with success?

    Thanks
     
  2. Steve Magnusson

    Steve Magnusson Two Time F1 World Champ
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    Jan 11, 2001
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    Steve Magnusson
    #2 Steve Magnusson, Apr 28, 2004
    I think it depends on what you call a "single distributor" set-up. Even though the F single distributor has only one body and one cap, from an electrical architecture viewpoint it's still two four cylinder units operating in a parallel interleaved way (so 1/2 can fail independently). If you graft on a US electronic distributor from a V8 (or Unilite, Mallory, etc.) it's more likely to be a single electrical unit from an operation standpoint -- i.e., if something/anything fails, the whole thing stops working.

    If you update the dual distributor set-up with a pair of Cranes or Petronix, it's still a parallel interleaved system (even if you put both triggers in the same distributor).

    What's your $ level and concern about reversibility and/or modification? (some of the distributorless systems are cool, but pricey, and a significant mod).
     
  3. snj5

    snj5 F1 World Champ

    Feb 22, 2003
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    Russ Turner
    #3 snj5, Apr 28, 2004
    To add to what Steve has said, if you convert to a true single distributor/single coil ignition system, then the famous single bank ignition is impossible.

    FWIW, I have had single bank ignition failure three times. Since I like simple DIY maintenance anyway, I had Norwood's do a conversion for my 3.2 to use an OTS Mallory performance Unilite distributor adaptor which also allows me to fine tune my timing. It's also (hopefully) a bit easier to maintain, parts available and inexpensive, simple technology, and more reliable. Am installing this week. That whole distributor cost less than one OEM Ferrari distributor cap is also a plus. The Electromotive distributorless are more accurate, but much more complicated - this is easy and good for me. Have covered the details in other threads.
    best
    rt

    Picture of adaptor and distributor installed on test head:
     
  4. GrigioGuy

    GrigioGuy Splenda Daddy
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    #4 GrigioGuy, Apr 29, 2004
    Thanks for the input.

    I use the car daily, so I'm looking to improve it when it comes to the mechanical elements. I haven't had a failure yet, but it will happen, the odds just require it.

    In order of importance:

    1) I want the solution to result in an all-or-nothing failure. Since the single mode isn't a limp home, but rather a car-B-que, there's no advantage to the interleaving.

    2) Budget is a concern. I'd rather not pay 5K for a distributor conversion. However, if that's what is required to be safe so be it. I can live with non-originality, as the car isn't for sale and is destined for further modifications eventually.

    3) Something that will work with an aftermarket engine management system/EFI would be nice, so that I don't have to pull it when I finally change over to that (a few years out)

    4) An updated electrical system will allow me to put the catalytic converter back on the car.

    The Norwood/Unilite system below looks like a very valid option.

    I know there was a great writeup on dist. conversions somewhere in the archives, but I can't seem to find it. Does anyone remember that thread?

    Thanks for all the feedback.
    --t
     
  5. cavallo_nero

    cavallo_nero Formula 3

    Nov 3, 2003
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    colorado
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    Giovanni Pasquale
    #5 cavallo_nero, Apr 29, 2004
    i have had the electromotive direct fire unit on my 308 for 4 years now and no mishaps, car starts all the time, even on cold colorado 20 degree mornings, and my chokes ARE disconnected.
     
  6. Wayne 962

    Wayne 962 Formula Junior
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    Nov 27, 2003
    503
    #6 Wayne 962, May 11, 2004
    Where do you get that adapter, Norwood?

    -Wayne
     
  7. snj5

    snj5 F1 World Champ

    Feb 22, 2003
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    #7 snj5, May 11, 2004
    Yes - Norwood - talk to James Patterson.
    Installed last week and runs well.

    IMPORTANT POINT: More good news is that the old ECU still runs the tach with the coils disconnected - yea!

    No more single bank failure - yea!
    Pictures next week when I get back from this trip.

    best
    rt
     

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