> What are your thoughts on converting my 3A to an electronic
> ignition system?
> Both pros and cons?
The various "pointless" ignition systems are nice in that they reduce the
need for tune-ups, and help keep engine efficiency (power and mileage) high
between tune-ups. Easier starts, I'm sure you've heard the litany.
The Crane/Allison/Piranha (are they still around ?) systems are also nice,
in that they are less sensitive to shaft wobble caused by a worn bushing in
the distributor. The Pertronix is also less sensitive than points, but it's
my understanding that it's more sensitive than the optical systems.
OTOH, with the electronic systems, if anything fails, you're either calling
a tow truck or replacing parts on the side of the road. Points are
sub-optimum most of the time, but they rarely quit running altogether. If
you do go electronic, my suggestion is to get a spare point plate and keep
it in the boot, with points and condensor mounted. (Some even carry a
complete spare dizzy; with rotor, cap and wires; in the center of the spare
tire.)
I ran an unusual combination on my TR3A for many years, a MSD-6 "multiple
spark" ignition, triggered by the stock points. Other than some teething
problems (had to replace the carbon resistor in the dizzy cap with a pure
carbon rod) I was quite happy with it, and the points lasted basically
forever. I tried switching to a Crane a few years back, because of all the
spark scatter I was seeing with the points, but I've not been nearly as
happy with it. I plan to switch back to the MSD (perhaps using a Crane
pickup) when I get some other problems sorted out.
Note that, although some are available as positive-ground systems, most if
not all of them are not switchable between positive and negative ground. If
there's any chance you might want to convert the original positive ground to
negative (so you can use other electronics like CD players and whatnot
without a converter); you should decide before you select an ignition.
Also consider coil compatibility, some ignitions (like the MSD 6) are not
compatible with the original "internal resistor" coil. Crane makes two
different models, one is and the other is not. I think the Pertronix is,
but don't know for sure offhand.
Randall
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