Converting Back From Pertronix to Points

[Christopher R.]

Many years ago, I converted my '62 distributor from the factory points to a Pertronix system. While I haven't driven the car much, I have burned out 3 coils. I'm thinking of converting back. I suspect the Pertronix. The last coil was a Pertronix one. The Pertronix is wired correctly.

Can I use the AC Delco points set, D1007, that combine the points with the condenser in one unit? Or, does my '62 distributor require separate points and a separate condenser?

[Duke W.]

Re: Converting Back From Pertronix to Points

Is the distributor the OE type dual point with a "two-window" cap without a VAC or something else? Is the original ballast resistor in place and is it in the circuit? What type of coils "burned out", OE or aftermarket? State manufacturer and part number.


Photos would help.

Duke

[Christopher R.]

Re: Converting Back From Pertronix to Points

The distributor is a stock single point Delco Remy 1110984 with a VAC. 1 window cap. The ballast resistor is a repro Delco Remy which measures around 1.8 ohms when cold. The ballast resistor is wired according to the Pertronix instructions. The Pertronix red wire gets a full 12 volts from the ignition switch upstream of the ballast resistor. The coil gets reduced voltage downstream of he ballast resistor.

[Mark E.]

Re: Converting Back From Pertronix to Points

What's the voltage downstream of the ballast? Look for 7 to 9 volts with ignition on. Anything higher can burnout the coil.

[Duke W.]

Re: Converting Back From Pertronix to Points

The distributor is a stock single point Delco Remy 1110984 with a VAC. 1 window cap. The ballast resistor is a repro Delco Remy which measures around 1.8 ohms when cold. The ballast resistor is wired according to the Pertronix instructions. The Pertronix red wire gets a full 12 volts from the ignition switch upstream of the ballast resistor. The coil gets reduced voltage downstream of he ballast resistor.

You didn't mention which engine option or whether it's modified. You should verify that the VAC passes the Two-Inch Rule. Breaker points require a ballast, so it's matter or returning the wiring to OE configuration.

I prefer separate points and condenser, and there is an article in the restoration documents sticky about how to select the best point set.

Duke

[Joseph L.]

Re: Converting Back From Pertronix to Points

If you want help with the Pertronix, we need information. Pertronix makes an Ignitor and Ignitor II. I am using an Ignitor II with a Flamethrower II coil in a stock distributor dual point 1957 and have no issues. The ballast resistor is removed or bypassed in this configuration. I drive my car and have had no problems. I would not call Pertronix an issue. It might be the coil or resistor. In a later C1, the resistor is 1.8 ohms vs. 0.3 in the earlier cars, creating a smaller voltage at the coil. Pertronix provides support and 'call in' help.

Joe