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1973 Jeep Cj5 Distributor- What Kind

Discussion in 'Intermediate CJ-5/6/7/8' started by Jeff Taylor, Oct 13, 2017.

  1. Oct 13, 2017
    Jeff Taylor

    Jeff Taylor 1973 Jeep CJ5

    Charlotte, NC
    Joined:
    Jun 14, 2017
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    39
    I want to upgrade my ignition and need help identifying what kind of distributor I have. I have a 1973 jeep cj5 232


     
  2. Oct 13, 2017
    timgr

    timgr We stand on the shoulders of giants. 2022 Sponsor

    Medford Mass USA
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    Aug 10, 2003
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    23,596
    Delco. Should be a mark somewhere on the distributor, maybe on the advance plate.

    There's nothing wrong with the Delco distributor. You could use it to trigger an MSD module. The points will last a looong time if relieved of switching the coil by the MSD module. Or you could install a '78-up Duraspark distributor, and trigger your choice of modules. Or you could install a Chevy 250 HEI distributor with an AMC V8 distributor gear. Or you could install an aftermarket GM HEI-clone distributor. Lots of options.
     
  3. Oct 16, 2017
    DrDanteIII

    DrDanteIII Master Procrastinator

    Milford NJ 08848
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    Mar 21, 2007
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    1,516
    Pertronix ignitor is also a popular option.

    I went with an aftermarket HEI and it's been great. Just be sure to get the proper distributor gear, because the ones they come will can destroy the cam gear.
     
    cookieman likes this.
  4. Oct 16, 2017
    johneyboy03

    johneyboy03 The green beast

    Quebec, Canada
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    For the dist gear i bought a brass gear with the a new metal gear chew the cam gear...
     
  5. Oct 16, 2017
    timgr

    timgr We stand on the shoulders of giants. 2022 Sponsor

    Medford Mass USA
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    I believe the distributor gear problems are associated with the V8s, not the sixes. Something to look into.

    IMO it's hard to beat the '78-up Duraspark as a basis for a 232/258 ignition system. Easily and cheaply available from you parts store. You can choose from several modules that can be triggered by its VR (magnetic) trigger. An HEI-style big cap, rotor and wires are also parts store items for this distributor.

    Note that GM thought the coil-under-cap design of the HEI was not suitable for the Blazer with the 250, and GM supplied a short cap and external coil for this app. The original HEI on a Chevy V8 sits level on top of the engine, and the 250 (and 232/258) sits at quite an angle on the side of the engine.

    But the existing Delco will work fine with a Pertronix conversion, and the points or the Pertronix can trigger a MSD module should you wish to upgrade. However, there is no big cap available for the Delco 6 cylinder distributors, AFAIK.
     
    mike starck likes this.
  6. Oct 16, 2017
    sterlclan

    sterlclan Member 2022 Sponsor

    exploring the...
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    I am running a six cyl Chevy distributor and have for years. just had to change the gear from the points one to the hei.
     
  7. Oct 16, 2017
    GeoffreyL

    GeoffreyL Well-Known Member

    moorestown, nj
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    Aug 1, 2012
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    I actually converted my 232 from the stock AMC electronic junk (after i left the key on overnight and the control module which you cant get fried) to a points distributor off of something else, I cant remember what. I just remember I bought the distributor, cap, rotor and a coil for $40 new from advance auto. Nothing wrong with points if you set them right, I love their simplicity.

    here was my thread:
    Left the key on overnight...... no start now.
     
  8. Oct 16, 2017
    wally

    wally SSSSTER

    upper merrimack...
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    Jun 12, 2005
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    i am as well. using a buick cap/rotor, and drof 300 plug wires. i used the original distributor drive gear after grinding down the collar/neck flush with the cogs.
     
  9. Oct 17, 2017
    rholmes69

    rholmes69 goat herder....

    Raleigh NC
    Joined:
    Aug 20, 2015
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