What type of ignition system do you have?

[bran100]

I've rebuilt the motor on my '82 with lots of upgrades, but have yet to touch the ignition system. I'm even using the stock coil which I'm sure is hampering performance.

I really want one of Mark's Computronix systems, but I'm getting into the driving season, and considering they're still out of stock, I'm wondering what my plan B should be.

So what system are you using, and what are your recommendations?

[So Cal Mark]

patience, we'll have them very soon!

[TimpanogosSlim]

You have a magnetic pickup (hall sensor) type distributor that was designed to use an outboard ignition module, like many other vehicles of the era. In particular, it's a GM-style 4-pin module.

So you have numerous options, including Crane XR700, XR3000, and Hi-6R, I believe MSD 6AL-2 as well. Unsure if Pertronix sells something for the late mag pickup ignition.

[seabeelt]

Highly recommend Mark's Computronics

[sptcoupe]

I have the Computronic on all three cars and they work really well (72 sport coupe with IDFs, '86 Bertone and '81 124 spider with FI). Wait for the cam box mounted model form Mark. There can be some fitment issues with the block mounted system if you are going to use a waffle manifold with IDFs.

Worth the wait.

[seabeelt]

Yup, ran into that installing the dual IDFs. Had to remove the manifold studs from the block, put the manifold in place and then reinstall the studs and nuts. It was a head scratcher for sure.
R/

[sptcoupe]

Correct on the waffle manifold. That said, the block mounted model goes on fine with an Alquati type manifold. You may also have to bend your alternator bracket a bit, depending on what side you have it mounted. If you are in no hurry, I would wait for the cam box mounted model, as I understand these are nearly ready for shipping.

[RRoller123]

The alternator bracket needs a compound bend to fit correctly, it takes a little figuring, but it will fit just fine after some finagling. You basically need to put three bends into it, and a little twist to get it to sit flush to the alternator mounting face. Also need to rotate and secure the oil dip stick.

[azruss]

I too have Mark's computronix ignition mounted in the block. As stated the alt mount needs to be bent to clear the unit. I don't know if that will be true of the new ones. I got rid of the long dip stick and modified it to fit in the block with no extension tube. I did have to put new high/low marks on it. I have a flat hood on a 2LFI and got rid of dizzy clearance issues. the system works great.

[RRoller123]

Yes, it definitely solves the hood problem. My distributor was always gouging the thermal padding on the underside of the hood.

In the bottom pic, I hadn't cut the tie-wrap end yet, but the dipstick tube is basically just swiveled 90 degrees CCW, and I attached it to the fuel rail with an insulated/padded strap connector. Works great! I don't believe the reading on the dipstick changes using this approach (?), since the angle it enters the crankcase, and the distance inserted remain the same after swiveling.

[131]

In particular, it's a GM-style 4-pin module. So you have numerous options, including Crane XR700, XR3000, and Hi-6R.

I've got the stock cam mounted dizzie, no VA, to a Crane Hi-6 feeding a Bosch HE coil. Huge spark, I fitted it to my previous 131 when running on LPG, swapped it to my current car when I dismantled the other one.

[Redline]

Muphy's Law... my dizzy craps out when the Computronix units are out of stock. I would have been interested to try it out, but I am more interested to get up and running again ASAP. I've ordered a 123 system from the Netherlands (despite mixed opinions on them) and I'll post my own experience with it. In the long term, I will probably go for the Computronix system.

[131]

Muphy's Law... my dizzy craps out

I'll be in Switzerland in 2 weeks, I could have brought one with me.

[Redline]

Hey, c'est la vie. We'll see how the 123 goes and I'll change sometime later when it's convenient. I might be pulling the motor for a freshening sometime in the next year or two. The 123 was a cheap stop-gap, given the strong CHF these days.