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Distributor swap

footbrake

footbrake

Contributing Member
Hi, new to this stuff so bare with me. I just purchased a 1982 Renken 18.5 ft. with the 2.5 and I guess the omc outdrive. First of all can the point type distributor be changed for an hei electronic distributor? Also I'm being told that with the omc outdrive I'm in for big problems. What's the deal here. I'm a newbie and need some advice. thanks-Russ
 
Here's the electronic distributor for your motor:
http://www.michiganmotorz.com/delco-voyager-marine-electronic-distributor-p-120.html
30Distkit_001LG_150_190.gif

with that, you'll need to also change your ESA module to this one that is compatible with electronic ign.
123-7878-M.png
 
Thank-you any help is appreciated. As you can imagine, being new to this has my head spinning with different things.:)
 
Russ, IMO, you do not necessarily need an HEI ignition system for this engine, however, there is no real down-side to the HEI.
If you do go with HEI, be sure that you gap your spark plugs accordingly, or you won't take advantage of the higher output voltage.
Member hystat gives a nice explanation of high tension coil voltage here in post #13.


If going other than HEI represents a cost savings, that may be something to consider.
Since you are new to this, be sure that you use a Marine ignition system.


Yes.... you will need to modify your OMC ESA system for any electronic ignition system.

Also I'm being told that with the omc outdrive I'm in for big problems. What's the deal here. I'm a newbie and need some advice. thanks-Russ
Click to expand...
In 1982, the OMC drive would be a "Stringer" drive, as apposed to a "Stern" drive.
The OMC company no longer exists, although a company called Bombardier does offer the equivilant of OEM parts.
Yes, they can be problematic.


.
 
Thanks so much for the help. the reason for going to an HEI system is not worrying about points and the like. I have HEI in my racecar and don't think the dist. cap has been off in 5 years. About my outdrive, well I'm hoping it'll be ok. thanks again.
 
footbrake said:
the reason for going to an HEI system is not worrying about points and the like.
Click to expand...
Electronic ignition relates to triggering side of the system that replaces the Kettering System (contact points).
It does not need to be an HEI unit to incorporate electronic triggering.


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