Why points conversion kits?

[Peter J.]

I guess I'm a little slow sometimes but I have been wondering about this for a few years. Standard ignition points are so easy to adjust or change out and so reliable why are so many owners switching to the conversion kits to eliminate them? Is this marketing or are they really an improvement and if so how? I have read the claims but have never had a problem with the stock distributor that a file,dwell meter or a new set of points wouldn't cure.
Thanks for any insight,

[Jim D.]

Re: Why points conversion kits?

I'm with you 100%. There is nothing wrong with points. The BIG disadvantage I see with electronic stuff is that they either work 100% or 0%. Everyone I've ever talked to that has done the conversion keeps a set of points in the glove box in case the electronics fail.
I've never had a problem with the dual point distributor in my 1960, however, I've only had it 35 years so who knows what the future will hold.

[Jim L.]

Re: Why points conversion kits?

. Standard ignition points are so easy to adjust or change out and so reliable why are so many owners switching to the conversion kits to eliminate them?

Damfino. All of our vintage cars have Kettering (points) ignition and they all work fine. Even both of our two track cars use points; never a problem.

And, just a hunch on my part, I'd bet a sizeable sum that no aftermarket points replacement has been as thoroughly developed and tested as any OEM points ignition system.

Jim

[Robert S.]

Re: Why points conversion kits?

I drive my 60 and show it from time to time. Adjusting points is a slight bother that I no longer have to put up with. The really difficult part of the point adjustment process is removing and reinstalling the shielding. I've changed enough point sets that I clearly remember the process and do not miss doing it anymore.

Bob

[Paul Y.]

Re: Why points conversion kits?

Although I know that some people feel that they do not need to touch their distrutors, I feel that it is good to keep the weights lubed and free and on my fuely check for any type of oil leaks. I have been doing points and dwell for 50 years and it is kind of like breathing and oxygen. They are so trouble free that I took out the mallory unilite system from my 71 when I got it and changed it back to points. I am also always open to new and better techknowlogy. That's why I love the mechanical fuelys.

[Ray G.]

Re: Why points conversion kits?

I guess I'm a little slow sometimes but I have been wondering about this for a few years. Standard ignition points are so easy to adjust or change out and so reliable why are so many owners switching to the conversion kits to eliminate them? Is this marketing or are they really an improvement and if so how? I have read the claims but have never had a problem with the stock distributor that a file,dwell meter or a new set of points wouldn't cure.
Thanks for any insight,

Hello Peter;
Ignition points for me. 40+ years and counting.
Reliable, inexpensive, and easy.

Just my 2 cents.
Ray

[Stuart F.]

Re: Why points conversion kits?

What ever turns you on. I've been playing with both for over 55 years and used to swear by the old dual point Vette distributors, but since buying my 63 new, which has just the one set, I've found that I prefer a conversion. I've gotten much longer plug life and consistent high rpm pulls with electronics. I've had Prestolite (Wards), then Pertronics Ignitor, and now Pertronics II. Even with radio resistance plug wires I can consistently pull red line. Again, what ever works good for you. If you are happy with 5000 rpm pulls, fine. I like to see 7000 rpm once in a while with my L-76 w/o a bouncing tach needle. My current set of plugs has been in the engine since 2001 and seen about 7000 miles. I'm more concerned about them rusting into the heads than not pulling red line w/o missing a beat. Oh ya, I use Champions to avoid the rusting in problem.

Stu Fox

[Stuart F.]

Re: Why points conversion kits?

Oh yes, I forgot to mention: I don't carry a set of points with me in the glove box. I discarded all of them spares for my last move here to Florida in 2004.

Stu Fox

[Wayne W.]

Re: Why points conversion kits?

Although I know that some people feel that they do not need to touch their distrutors, I feel that it is good to keep the weights lubed and free and on my fuely check for any type of oil leaks. I have been doing points and dwell for 50 years and it is kind of like breathing and oxygen. They are so trouble free that I took out the mallory unilite system from my 71 when I got it and changed it back to points. I am also always open to new and better techknowlogy. That's why I love the mechanical fuelys.

Just put in a Mallory unilite on a recent `70 build, on the recommendation of my engine builder. I wasn't impressed at all. The plastic part at the top for the signal warped when tightened down. The screws are in danger of hitting the module, and the wires are not secure and will rub inside the distributor given time. This is a recipe for disaster on the road, not counting the possibility of electronic failure. I would much rather have the points and carry a spare set.

[Timothy B.]

Re: Why points conversion kits?

Peter,

As points wear the dwell changes and timing retards, plus the resistance from the sparking makes them less efficent as they age.

I agree with everyone in that points are still a good way to go with our old cars. But, that being said I installed a breakerless SE ignition on my 67 distributor and love it. Car runs great, no skips but I must admit I carry points and condenser with tools in glove box.

Wayne, If you install a breakerless SE I bet you will have a different opinion about your concerns. Still, the car will only run like it's got new points but all the time..

[Wayne P.]

Re: Why points conversion kits?

I have been using Breakerless http://www.breakerless.com/ advantage only one wire hook up. Works great so far .

[Jack H.]

Re: Why points conversion kits?

Well, here's one with a '71 that's had a Breakerless SE installed for +50K miles and has driven the National Road Tour 6+ times WITHOUT carrying a 'backup' set of points/condenser.

Why fork out the $$$ for the solid state system?

(1) When I want to drive my classic Corvette, I want to drive it...NOT spend that hour 'tweaking' the ignition system to make 'er be in tip-top shape.

(2) There are some minor advantages of the SS ignition relative to the factory stock Kettering system...

(2A) Automatic shut down to thwart ignition coil heating when the engine isn't running but the ignition switch is in the ON position.

(2B) Dynamic dwell control giving a slightly crisper throttle response across the RPM range when you climb to red line.

(2C) Lack of mechanical contact between points and distributor shaft eliminates any minor distributor wear issues (shaft wobble, Etc.).

Bottom line, it's a choice that's up to each/every owner. I can't agree more with the naysayers position that you can buy a LOT of points and condensers for the $160 cost of a Breakerless SE! But, I think the minor issues I cite above justify the expense...