Points to Electronic Conversion

B

Brian G.

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Joined
Apr 22, 2003
RO Number
11467
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15
I want to convert my 1968 Mercruiser 120hp 4 cylinder GM I/O points distributor to electronic. I'm looking at a Pertronix kit. Is the Pertronix kit reliable? If not what other vendor is recommended? Is replacing the whole distributor the better choice?

Thanks,

Brian
 
1968? WOW, 53 years. Good job keeping it running! FWIW, all I know is the name Pertronix--been around a long time.
 
I used Pertronix on a a couple of Crusader motors and couldn't have been more happy with increase in performance and dependability. It seemed like I was constantly tinkering with the ooints prior to the conversion kits.
 
This is for a 153 c.i./ 2.5L 120 ho engine , yes?

I suggest you check the distributor shaft and bearing by holding the rotor on the shaft and try moving it directly side to side in all directions ( not rotating.)If there is "play" there, the bearing is warn, and it would be best to replace the whole distributor.
Another clue indicating dist, shaft and bearing wear is a "nervous" tach gauge needle at idle.

If the dist. tests OK, the Pertronix Ignitor II with the RED module is definitely worth the little extra cost over the original (black module) Ignitor conversion kit .
That's because the original black version will burn out if the ignition switch is left on to power other things &/or perform electrical tests, but the Ignitor II does not have that vulnerability.

However, if the distributor is worn , IMO your best best bet would be to replace it with the really good Delco Voyager EST kits with new all- electronic advance distributor, matching coil and quality plug & coil cables.

http://store.enginepartscenter.com/mercruiser-470470r485488r-omc-100110120-91146a-45111-p2478.aspx

https://www.michiganmotorz.com/3-0l-delco-voyager-est-marine-electronic-distributor-kit

Good luck.
 
I replaced the points in the old Crusader 454's several years ago with D.U.I. distributors.. Davis Unified Ignition Marine 7000.. Did the work myself and the boat ran great, never had issues afterward.
 
Replacing the whole distributor is a better choice, but a much more expensive choice.

I had the mallory espark conversion on a previous boat, which I believe is similar to the pertronix - while it ran fine, and in theory required less maintenance than the points, I hated it. For some reason I kept burning out the module in the distributor, I was very close to going back to points, but sold the boat instead.

Not sure if the pertronix is more tolerant, but absolutely hated the mallory conversion kit. Will never go down that path again.
 
I too did the Petronix on Crusaders and loved the conversion. They ran like different motors from that point forward.
 
quote:
Originally posted by zane

I too did the Petronix on Crusaders and loved the conversion. They ran like different motors from that point forward.

Click to expand...


Ditto
 
quote:
Originally posted by Sandy

This is for a 153 c.i./ 2.5L 120 ho engine , yes?

I suggest you check the distributor shaft and bearing by holding the rotor on the shaft and try moving it directly side to side in all directions ( not rotating.)If there is "play" there, the bearing is warn, and it would be best to replace the whole distributor.
Another clue indicating dist, shaft and bearing wear is a "nervous" tach gauge needle at idle.

If the dist. tests OK, the Pertronix Ignitor II with the RED module is definitely worth the little extra cost over the original (black module) Ignitor conversion kit .
That's because the original black version will burn out if the ignition switch is left on to power other things &/or perform electrical tests, but the Ignitor II does not have that vulnerability.

However, if the distributor is worn , IMO your best best bet would be to replace it with the really good Delco Voyager EST kits with new all- electronic advance distributor, matching coil and quality plug & coil cables.

http://store.enginepartscenter.com/mercruiser-470470r485488r-omc-100110120-91146a-45111-p2478.aspx

https://www.michiganmotorz.com/3-0l-delco-voyager-est-marine-electronic-distributor-kit

Good luck.

Click to expand...
Sandy, this is what makes this such a great site that has guided many of us and saved lots of $$ over the years. It's knowledgeable people like you who share your experience that makes it great.

Thanks for your many contributions. (You other ROs, too!!)
 
Thanks Sandy and others. I'll follow up with your suggestions. Always good advice from all you knowledgeable boaters and mechanics!
 
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