Re: ignition for an AMC V-8

[farna@xxxxxxx]

HEI is a GM name. If you mean a true HEI with the coil in the cap, it can be done. A couple companies (such as Davis, who calls theor version a DUI) make them, but they are expensive. The less expensive way is to use the Autolite electronic ignition distributor you have. Convert it over to Ford TFI, which is the functional equivalent of GM HEI and just as good. All you need is the cap and conversion ring from a late model Ford V-8, try a 1990 460 F-250 (I think that will work). You will also need a spark pllug wire set (the Ford set works fine) since the TFI cap has positive connect posts, and the TFI coil. The same electronic ignition box is used. The larger cap keeps the wire towers separated more so the cooil can pour more juice through it. If you search some of the Jeep sites you can probably find a parts list and even some conversion kits. Search for "Jeep TFI". 

--
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Independent 
Magazine" (AIM)
*Elite* publication for those 
interested in all 
aspects of AMC 
history,performance,restoration,etc
. 
(AMC,Rambler,Nash,Hudson,Jeep,etc.)
http:farna.home.att.net/AIM.html
(free download available!)
			

 -------------- Original message ----------------------

> From: "Jim Blair" <carnuck@xxxxxxxxxxx>
> To: "amc" <mail@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
> Subject: Re: ignition for an AMC V-8
> Date: Tue, 2 Nov 2004 11:07:26 -0800
> Message-ID: <BAY20-DAV2Opj53XaDF0000070e@xxxxxxxxxxx>
> 
> A: I would do a GM HEI swap if you go away from points. Positive values are: 
> hook direct to 12VDC (no resistor needed and it will actually hold back the 
> RPM if resistored) and simplicity. (1 wire to operate and a plug for tach 
> built in) One wire alts are okay, but a regular GM alt is easy to hook in 
> too. (run the main and sensor wire to the battery positive and the other 
> wire hooks to whatever wire makes the dash's alt light come on when 
> grounded. Add a 10 ohm resistor and the light won't glow at night!)
> 
> 
> From: "Armand Eshleman" <aje1@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
> To: <mail@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
> Subject: ignition for an AMC V-8
> Date: Mon, 1 Nov 2004 22:19:28 -0600
> 
> Hello listers,
> 
> I have a question for you guys today that everyone should be
> able to help with because it may be more of a matter of opinion
> than anything. I have a Mallory dual point distributor with new
> points in it, I have a HEI distributor (anyway I think its an HEI)
> (I think it's an Autolite unit or FOMOCO or something)
> from the 76 401, which one would be the one to use with the
> 401 after it's rebuilt, or is there something better still, like maybe
> a Pertronix or a billet distributor or crank trigger or ?
> Come on you AMC engine experts give me your opinion on what
> to use to fire my 401. It's going into a 70 Javelin so maybe wiring
> the thing to work in the Javelin's electrical system might be a factor
> too. I suppose I should switch over to a one wire alternator at the
> same time, any suggestions there?
> 
> Thanks,
> 
> 
> 

> Armand