im more of a motorcycle/atv snowmobile fix it guy..... i just inherited from my dad a 66 dodge monaco convertible so it's time to get familair with maintaining it...

It has the 383 in it and I want to get rid of the point system and convert to electronic ignition.

What are my options?
Can I simply replace the points with an electronic module or do I have to use one of those kits like JEGS have(part# 555-40504K) and replace the entire distributor,etc?

When adding one of these kits, it is as simple as replacing the distributer and components and way you go or does one have to adjust the timing??
Just wondering if I need to add a timing light to my tool collection.

Cheers

Glen

 

several options, Yes you need to replace the distributor and adjust the timing

Make sure to get a 383/400 distributor NOT a 440- different length

 

Check these out..... Not to hard to do....
http://www.pertronix.com/

 

That's all that comes in the kits. You can have one installed in a few hours, and that's if you work really slowly.

 

Look at all options, I'm a big advocate of the Chrysler Electronic Ignition. Search Mopar HEI, there are a ton of premade kits and alot of do it yourself instruction on how to put together an inexpensive one wire ignition.

Some of the off shore, inexpensive one wire systems are good too.

Whichever distributor you go with find one that has an adjustable mechanical advance so you can fine tune your ignition curve with little trouble. Some will have bits inside like the Chrysler, I've come to like the ones that use the GM system of springs and weights under the rotor. My son just bought one for his Ford and it was only a few minutes to change limiter bushings and retime initial and see immediate results without removing distributor.

 

AND get 2 spar ballasts resistors and put hem in the glove box. at the first no start just pop one on.

 

thanks guys...... excellent info and tips. This will be the first time working on an older car. just want to make sure I have everything I need to do the job.......

cheers

 

Finally got around to get a kit...Proform...
http://www.ebay.ca/itm/371039861726?...84.m1423.l2649

someone mentioned to me that some of the older coils are not compatible with the electronic ignition systems. Different voltage levels Im guessing.

On my car is the delco remy part# 1115202 coil. Will I be ok to continue to use this with electronic system or do i Need to change it.

 

Well you could go to a Pertronics point replacement unit (that would be the most
basic) or a Mallory Unilite ( which I run ) or MSD basic distributor with reluctor
ring or the same with ignition box. Those are in order from cheapest conversion
to most expensive. Whatever root you choose, hang a coil with built in
resistance and loose the ballast resistor as it will no longer be required. Surprisingly
the original system Mopar used was not all that bad except for the electronic
module failure.