MSD 6A Ignition Control

[wetminkey]

I'd really like to hear agreement before I purchase another MSD 6A and alter my Marelli's plug. I assume that I can trigger an MSD 6A with the Marelli distributor's electronic control module.
I have done this with many igniton systems, but none involved Marelli components, and MSD is designed for domestics, primarily. Probably a dumb question, but there it is,...
Thanks, Todd.

[kenncarp]

I debated this as well on my 79 2.0. Upon research, and talking to a few buddies of mine who build and dyno 124 engines, the marelliplex ignition system paired with a good control module (BWD or Accel) with a upgraded ignition coil (Msd Blaster II), gives a small hp gain over the stock ignition system, while the 6al has little to no gain, costs over 200 dollars, and can be unreliable when partnered with the marelliplex distributor. What i did instead, because i wanted the rev limiter aspect, was install a msd Soft touch rev limiter, which was far easier install, and does not affect spark (wires inline of mag. pickup and control module). I saved money, and gained a little hp, (these marelliplex systems are already so dialed in, there really isnt much to gain). I am running 2 40 IDF webers, the most gas you can put into these motors, and the upgraded coil, hefty CM and rev limiter has done me great! Just my 2 cents. Let me know what you decide to do.

[wetminkey]

Thank you, sir! I like your advice very much,...and I never argue with good research. That's why I thought to check here!
I've been running a Blaster II coil,...but now I see that I need to add a 0.8 ohm ballast resistor inline to my coil's + for it to be properly installed. It's been running fine, but MSD states it should be there for this particular coil. I'll order one when I order an Accel 35361 from Jegs. It is the proper module for the '79 Spider, and I see that it has dwell control, too.
I was kind of hoping to take advantage of the MSD 6A's multi-spark ability. My Spider has no reed valves, and I'd like to reduce some of the visible exhaust. It's not much, but it annoys me,...
Have you ever heard of a multi-spark control module that fits the Spider?
Thanks! Todd.

[kenncarp]

Thank you, sir! I like your advice very much,...and I never argue with good research. That's why I thought to check here!
I've been running a Blaster II coil,...but now I see that I need to add a 0.8 ohm ballast resistor inline to my coil's + for it to be properly installed. It's been running fine, but MSD states it should be there for this particular coil. I'll order one when I order an Accel 35361 from Jegs. It is the proper module for the '79 Spider, and I see that it has dwell control, too.
I was kind of hoping to take advantage of the MSD 6A's multi-spark ability. My Spider has no reed valves, and I'd like to reduce some of the visible exhaust. It's not much, but it annoys me,...
Have you ever heard of a multi-spark control module that fits the Spider?
Thanks! Todd.

That CM is correct. The price here at oreillys is 48 bucks if you want it soon. I havent had any problems out of the new coil, even without the resistor. From what i have found on the 6AL, it provides the hot multiple spark at idle, which the car does not need it that much, but at higher rpms it is similar to the marelliplex. The buddy of mine says he has seen a couple people get stranded with them at the track, but no personal experience with it. That new control module should fix that exhaust smoke, it could be yours is a little dull at the moment. Hope all goes well!

[wetminkey]

I cleaned and lubed both the centrifugal advance mechanism and vacuum advance mechanism in the Marelli.
HA, HA!
I'd guess that my exhaust won't improve much without my solving the small issue of being able to easily suck air through my vacuum advance module! I don't think that there's any diaphragm left!
Replacing that, replacing my control module with the Accel, and adding the proper ballast resistor (Blaster II 8202, MSD-ready coil calls for it) to the 12V coil input should make some improvements in performance.
Thanks, kenncarp! I appreciate the help.
Todd.

[mamsterla]

I run an MSD 6A on my 1969 triggered off the single point mechanical advance distributor. I have it mated with an MSD Blaster 2 coil. I am restoring the whole car, but that setup never gave me issues when I ran it 20 years ago.

[wetminkey]

Yeah, I've got two HEI triggered MSD 6As, and a Pertronix triggered MSD 6A. all perform perfectly, never had any problems. The installations are about 10 to 20 years old, now.
Installation too near heat sources can cause failure of electronics,...
The Accel module is cheap, so I'll try it first,...
I think the vacuum module for the distributor will also make a big difference! Just stopping the huge vacuum leak will be a big help!
Todd.

[geospider]

I have a lot on interest in the benefits of upgrading my coil, etc. Just has been difficult to figure out best way. surprised that AR's higher performance coils are not for the 1979 year???
The CM and blaster coil has been the easiest so far. Not ready for Marks dizzy less system.
besides the coil and module, what else is required? I have 1979 2000/

sounds like the Accel with the Blaster II may be what I am looking for..

All thoughts appreciated.

Geo

[wetminkey]

No more required than to be sure that your distributor is operating properly. New cap, rotor,...set the timing.
I cleaned and lubed the centrifugal and vacuum advance mechanisms in mine. And believe me, check your vacuum module for operation/leaks! I think mine has just been a vacuum leak until now,...
It took a lot of checking, but I found that MSD's latest literature states that e-ignitions do not require a ballast resistor for the Blaster II coil.
I used a small, square bit of an old radiator hose to help the clamp hold the coil,...I think it is of slightly smaller diameter than stock Fiat.
ENJOY!
Todd.
P.S. I would LOVE a crank-triggered ignition, too,...but they're expensive!

[wetminkey]

Everything I ordered showed up today!
Removed the original ignition control module, cleaned the mounting spot carefully, and replaced it with the new Accel module,
after applying a smooth layer of the supplied silicone grease. Cleaned everything as I went, and polished all of the electrical contacts. I re-installed my Blaster II coil. Car started and ran nicely.
Marked position of the rotor and distributor housing and pulled it. Yanked the original vacuum advance module and installed my new one from AuotRicambi. Ya can't suck air through THIS one!
Car starts/runs great. The 'ol occasional miss seems to be MISSING! Hee, hee. Also seems to smoke less. Sure tore up some gravel, headed up the driveway!
But, alas, we await the bodyshop, so the Spider is not headed out for a run. Just back into the garage, for now. Soon.
Nice ignition upgrade retaining stock appearance under the hood.
Todd.

[geospider]

I also got the Blaster II and the accel CM. those I have mounted. But when checking the Vac Advance: just air moving freely. have one ordered. no one has those locally (of course not).
back to the upholstery. half way and looking good. I think. Pic will come when done.
waiting on thermal and sound padding to arrive.

geo

[BEEK]

I have used a msd 6al for years with a plex distributor with absolutely no issues. make sure your msd box is not put into a area where it cannot get proper ventilation.

[wetminkey]

Yo! Geo!
Question: the plastic connector on the vac. adv. module is threaded on to the diaphragm actuating rod. Any thoughts on if that length needs to be adjusted when installing the new module? I have not emailed AutoRicambi to ask,...
Hard to imagine that the part would require adjustment, and would be sold without instructions to do so. And my Spider sure seems to run well (but it's hard to test the vac. adv. on a cold engine, idling in the garage,...). Like I said though, sure wanted to tear up some gravel on it's short spurt up the drive!
Have FUN with your new ignition!!
Todd.

[geospider]

Todd,
was wondering the same thing. I guess I would go with the same length that is on the old one.
with and adjusting rod/nut, you would think there must be something to that. watched a couple Youtubes on Vac Adv and nothing about an adjustment.
Glad yours is running so well. look forward to it.

My first test drive will testing a lot of stuff: suspension, steering, brakes, ignition and rebuild of the whole upper half of motor.

I'll keep you all informed.

geo

[kenncarp]

Everything I ordered showed up today!
Removed the original ignition control module, cleaned the mounting spot carefully, and replaced it with the new Accel module,
after applying a smooth layer of the supplied silicone grease. Cleaned everything as I went, and polished all of the electrical contacts. I re-installed my Blaster II coil. Car started and ran nicely.
Marked position of the rotor and distributor housing and pulled it. Yanked the original vacuum advance module and installed my new one from AuotRicambi. Ya can't suck air through THIS one!
Car starts/runs great. The 'ol occasional miss seems to be MISSING! Hee, hee. Also seems to smoke less. Sure tore up some gravel, headed up the driveway!
But, alas, we await the bodyshop, so the Spider is not headed out for a run. Just back into the garage, for now. Soon.
Nice ignition upgrade retaining stock appearance under the hood.
Todd.

Awesome!!! Super glad to hear everything worked out!