Should I install Electronic Ignition?

[pferrel]

Hi all, noob here.

I have heard that my 1964 230 pagoda would benefit from a Pertronix distributor replacement with magnetic(?) point replacements. The mechanic called it a "Flamethrower" I think. Not sure if he meant to include other bits like accompanying coil. He no longer does this work so I'm asking the experts...

Can anyone advise? I want to keep the car close to original but this is a place that has been problematic. I'd like it to start and run like new if possible and have taken most all other actions on the subject. It's pretty good now, but does sometimes idle lower than normal and sometimes dies -- usually on a Seattle hill at a stop sign :-(

We have add-on that is external and uses the original mechanical distributor but that is now 20 years old and time to replace.

Thanks for any advice,
Pat

[wwheeler]

I think you need to find out more specifically why the distributor has been a problem. If the wear surfaces for the shaft or the advance plate is worn out, I don't think installing a Pertronix is going to help much. In that case a 123 distributor would be advised. It is more expensive for sure, but more likely to give you a "new" car feel. There is tons of info and feedback on this site regarding that new distributor.

[pferrel]

The mechanic specifically mentioned the distributor replacement. Is the 123 part of a kit from Pertronix or elsewhere? I see that they do sell "electronic" distributors.

BTW we have had the distributor checked and it is working well as far as it goes. Things like dwell advancement are critical to idle/start timing and so going with something new seems like a good plan. We are also looking into the coldstart injector, but it also seems to be working. I'll probably keep the originals as a working spares in case I ever sell.

Thanks much,
Pat

[pferrel]

Oh, I see 123 is another fully electronic distributor.

Will search this site but if anyone has an opinion, it is appreciated.

[Jowe]

Pertronix Ignitor II replaces the points in the distributor and adds some performance over the points. The FlameThrower is a high performance coil that adds even more performance over the standard coil when used together with Ignitor II. See discussion here, as example: https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=21639.msg159132#msg159132 and more info about Ignitor II and FlameThrower here: https://pertronix.com/electronic-ignition-conversions/ignitor-ii.html and here: https://pertronix.com/pertronix-1864la-ignitor-bosch-6-cyl.html#product_tabs_description_tabbed Ignitor II keeps the original distributor and the prerequisite is that it is in good order. If the distributor is fault, the 123 is a good option as replacement. More about 123 here: http://www.123ignition.nl

[russelljones48]

If it was me I would seek a more definitive diagnosis before spending a lot of money and maybe not solving your problem.  electronic ignitions/distributors do improve the spark and dwell (typically a "Hotter" spark and longer dwell) but the original system, if it's in good shape should be more than adequate.  A good mechanic should be able to tell you if the distributor is functioning properly - either with a distributor machine or just a good dwell meter and timing light.  he/she should also be able to read the plugs and also a compression check as part of the diagnosis.  I've just been through my ignition system and it needed new wires desperately and I didn't measure coil output but did install a new NGK coil (see this site) just because it's cheap and easy.  you also mentioned that it typically stalled on a hill - if that wasn't just humor regarding inopportune failures then I would also offer that you might want to look at the fuel system since distributors aren't usually impacted by a change in angle.. 

[mtoomey]

FWIW, very good experience and straightforward installation of a 1-2-3 in my car..

[JamesL]

Ditto

[UJJ]

Ditto again.