Ignition Points and Shields - 74' L48

[Robert S.]

On my 74', L48 to get the distributor back to the as-delivered configuration I have acquired the missing two piece sheet metal shield that goes over the points inside of the distributor cap. Right now I am running uniset points but I believe I read somewhere that I will need to convert back to a separate point and condenser configuration and the point set has to be spring clip design to hold the electrical wires and not the bolted retention style. Note: My distributor (which is part number and date correct) still has the u strap to hold a separate condenser so I assume that is how it was build by GM.
So my questions are:
1. Is it true I will need to get a separate point and condenser to replace my uniset? ie is it true that the uniset design will not fit under the 2 piece shield?
2. Is it true I must get a point set with the spring clip design to retain the wires? I think I read somewhere that the bolt style retention hits or can hit the shield.
3. Can anyone recommend a point set to acquire and from whom?

[Jim T.]

Re: Ignition Points and Shields - 74' L48

#1 is yes. Uniset points will not work under the factory installed two piece metal shield. Found this out a very long time ago converting to the uniset points in my 1970 Corvette.

I like the easy installation of the uniset points.

Duke's post on ignition points https://www.forums.ncrs.org/showthre...83936&uid=4619

[Martin N.]

Re: Ignition Points and Shields - 74' L48

Bob-
My experience with "uni-set" points has not been favorable. I've always tried to use seperate points & condenser units. I have been running "Echlin" stuff from NAPA in my 74 L-48 for the last 10 years without any issues. I agree with you in regards to the "uni-set" not fitting under the shielding, I believe it was only designed for the 2 piece system. I just looked at a set of the Echlin points and it has a screw to attach your 2 wires to. This set is about 4 years old so I can't say for sure that what you'd get today will be the screw or the clip attachment.

Marty

[Joe L.]

Re: Ignition Points and Shields - 74' L48

On my 74', L48 to get the distributor back to the as-delivered configuration I have acquired the missing two piece sheet metal shield that goes over the points inside of the distributor cap. Right now I am running uniset points but I believe I read somewhere that I will need to convert back to a separate point and condenser configuration and the point set has to be spring clip design to hold the electrical wires and not the bolted retention style. Note: My distributor (which is part number and date correct) still has the u strap to hold a separate condenser so I assume that is how it was build by GM.
So my questions are:
1. Is it true I will need to get a separate point and condenser to replace my uniset? ie is it true that the uniset design will not fit under the 2 piece shield?
2. Is it true I must get a point set with the spring clip design to retain the wires? I think I read somewhere that the bolt style retention hits or can hit the shield.
3. Can anyone recommend a point set to acquire and from whom?

Robert-----


Not only will the internal shields not work with Uniset style points but the shields are unnecessary with Uniset style points. Uniset style points eliminate the need for the shielding. Of course, if you want to maintain the shields for originality purposes, then you will have to convert the distributor back to separate points and condenser.

Keep in mind that in a Uniset style point set, the condenser characteristics are matched to the point set. This helps eliminate or, at least, reduce the transfer of metal from one contact to the other. That's the primary benefit of a Uniset style contact set with radio interference reduction a secondary benefit.

If you wish to obtain a contact set using the spring clip style wire attachment you can still obtain such a contact set under Delco #D106P. A separate condensor can be obtained under Delco #C433. Caution, however: this condenser will have a blue plastic end cap and wire unlike the original black. I don't think anyone will notice, though.