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I also installed the #1183 in my 56 Patrician. Not that I wanted to, I enjoy changing points (every 10 years or so) because its an opportunity to properly maintain the distributor's internals and lubrication needs like the centrifugal advance pivots and breaker plate pivot. But doing so really demands the removal of the unit and that's a bit of a pain.

No noticeable differences with the changeover - same gas mileage, same fast starts, etc. Probably the only other advantage (if you view not doing points as an advantage) is that the timing will not slowly change over time as the rubbing block on the moveable point wears.

I noticed after I installed the Pertronix, I had to retard the timing. Other than that, I see no difference in acceleration or any performance when the car is in motion. I only noticed the easier starts both when the engine is cold and when at operating temp.

What did you set your timing to? I think it's normally 6.5 advanced (I'd have to check). Were you getting some pinging?

I'm not real experienced with this stuff, so I appreciate your insight here.

ok. So e-ignition it is. But why the pertronix instead of this one: (see page 3).

packardinfo.com/xoops/html/modules/newbb ... rum=12&post_id=40435#forumpost40435

Quote:

The one in your link looks like it is for 12 volts (neg. gnd) only. That could be one reason.

Helmar is top-notch. I've purchased a handful of different Pertronix units from them for various vehicles and they've done a great job taking care of business. I've found them consistently lower priced than most so I don't even bother shopping around at this point.

I'll also rave about the Pertronix units themselves. I've installed them in several of our trucks over the years where they get a daily workout... not a single problem yet.

I have to set my timing by ear. I do not have a pointer on my crank pulley. When I first installed the Pertronix, the timing was so advanced that the spark was fighting the pistons when trying to start. I then timed it by ear and it works flawlessly.