Electric or Points Distributor?

[ewingeric]

I've been looking around, and notice that people are talking about an electric and a points distributor..

I have no idea what the difference is between the two, but was curious if someone could explain to me what the difference is, and which one is better? I'm currently restoring a '78 Spider, and am looking into new parts to put on it..

Thank You

[azruss]

the electronic dizzy is a modern upgrade to points. they use a magnetic pickup and a common module to replace the points and condenser. no more failing condenser, burnt points, and adjustment. life is a whole lot simpler with no points. worth the effort to upgrade.

[BenjamminsFiat]

Hey there! Not sure how much experience you have with cars, but I didn't have much at all when I started reading here a few months ago. I found that there are some really good resources on the web that have mostly accurate information about general automotive systems. Wikipedia can be a good source.

The main reason your post caught my eye is because I looked up the exact same thing a couple of days ago and still had the page in my browser history. Here's wikipedia's page on ignition systems: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ignition_system

My car, which is a 76 spider has a points ignition system. The cars from 1980 (I think) and later use electronic ignition systems. Electronic ignition is the more modern system. I'm looking to switch mine over as soon as I get the time and $.

Hope this helps

[So Cal Mark]

points-type need more maintenance, but generally are less expensive to maintain. The spark output is MUCH lower with a points system. The stock electronic systems are not bullet-proof at all and usually need replacement parts once a year. Many owners carry spare parts with them to deal with ignition failures on the road

[narfire]

Thanks for the info Mark. I was going to use the original points in the 1608 for the 72,but will put one of my electric dists in.
Chris

[Adam]

Hey Mark,

What needs to be replaced on an electrical system? I installed my crane XR3000 electronic ignition 2 years ago and have had no issues since. It may have been a little premature, but I just took my points and condensers out of my toolkit in the trunk of my car.