Upgrade Distributor on a 429 ??????

[Ernest_67]

I would like to upgrade my point distributor to and electronic distributor on a 67' DeVille with the 429 engine, have anyone completed this successfully before and if so, was it a good idea ?

[TJ Hopland]

The most popular upgrade that has been around the longest is the Pertronix Ignitor I.  They are available just about anywhere and I think that one is the common GM V8 one so it may even be a stock item for some.   It fits in the stock distributor and except for an extra wire looks stock.

There are other options that still use the points to trigger so it can be easy to switch back if needed.  In theory just using the points as a trigger they will last much longer plus the dwell will be done by the electronics so the adjustment is not critical.  It just depends on what you are looking for. Things like a MSD6 box can trigger off points.  With a transistor and resistor you can use the 70's GM HEI module.  With some adjustment of the points you can use the 70's Chrysler module. Velleman makes a kit  http://www.vellemanusa.com/us/enu/product/view/?id=350487     

[35-709]

I used the Pertronix setup in 2 different '66 429s several years ago, was very happy with the results and had no problems.  Drawback with any electronic system is that if you have a component failure it may take some time to get a replacement part, not to mention diagnosing the problem.  With points and condenser, replacement parts are as near as your local parts store.

Pertronix advertises in The Self Starter.

Geoff N.

[Otto Skorzeny]

Hi Ernest,

Click on the link in my signature and look for Dave's Small Body HEI on the list.

He will convert you existing distributor to the GM HEI system which uses off the shelf parts and leaves your engine bay looking a little more stock.