Do you need an ignition coil with HEI distributor?
A predecessor system called “Unitized Ignition” was optional on 1972 and 1973 Pontiacs. Most—but not all—HEI systems have the ignition coil mounted in the distributor cap. A control module and magnetic pickup are mounted in the distributor, in place of a conventional ignition system’s breaker points and condenser.
Where to get 12V for new HEI distributor?
The below diagram shows a 20gauge ignition wire goes to the + post of the coil (which the HEI does away with) then to the “R” terminal on the starter solenoid. Isn’t a 20gauge wire too small for 12v? I can not put a meter on the wire for I have finished the new wiring harnesses?
Where is the ignition coil on a HEI distributor?
The HEI distributor actually houses the ignition coil underneath that massive cap. You will need to purchase a new set to match your new distributor. With that said, reattach your individual plug wires to their proper posts. Take your time and make sure you have them right.
How big of wire do I need for a HEI distributor?
Also be sure to fuse it as well, 15 amps would be a good start for a HEI distributor. I know that on cars equipped with HEI the feed was a pretty large 12 ga. wire. Isn’t a 20gauge wire too small for 12v?
What to do when your HEI distributor starts to fire?
If the battery is fine, make sure the wire feeding the distributor is sufficient. To make sure it is not the hot wire, run a temporary jumper wire directly from the positive side of the battery to the distributor. If the distributor fires using the jumper wire, run a new hot wire from your switched 12-volt source to the distributor.
The below diagram shows a 20gauge ignition wire goes to the + post of the coil (which the HEI does away with) then to the “R” terminal on the starter solenoid. Isn’t a 20gauge wire too small for 12v? I can not put a meter on the wire for I have finished the new wiring harnesses?
The HEI distributor actually houses the ignition coil underneath that massive cap. You will need to purchase a new set to match your new distributor. With that said, reattach your individual plug wires to their proper posts. Take your time and make sure you have them right.
How can I tell if my HEI distributor is bad?
When checking for 12 volts, do so while you are cranking the engine. If the battery voltage drops below 10.5 volts while cranking, you probably have a bad battery. This low voltage could be insufficient to get the distributor to fire. Use a volt meter to test the hot wire while a buddy cranks the engine over.
How do you replace resistor wire on a HEI distributor?
Just trace the original resistor wire back to the bulkhead connector and replace it with a standard 12 gauge copper stranded wire (YearOne makes a direct replacement wire to include both end connectors). From the ignition switch to the bulkhead connector (interior) is already non resistor wire.