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Hei Distributor Recommendations For 258?

Discussion in 'Intermediate CJ-5/6/7/8' started by lhfarm, Apr 28, 2020.

  1. Apr 28, 2020
    lhfarm

    lhfarm Sponsor

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    Need to replace a defective Summit model. Thanks.
     
  2. Apr 28, 2020
    timgr

    timgr We stand on the shoulders of giants. 2022 Sponsor

    Medford Mass USA
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    This is for the '79 CJ-7? Why are you using a HEI distributor? What did you do with your original distributor?
     
  3. Apr 28, 2020
    lhfarm

    lhfarm Sponsor

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    A long sad story. I pulled the engine out of the 79 and am installing a rebuilt engine with 81 or later water jacket intake manifold. It came with a Summit HEI that doesn't work. Since I have no paperwork on it, I just want to replace it with something that will work. I would go back if I could, but can't and just want to get this engine running.
     
  4. Apr 28, 2020
    timgr

    timgr We stand on the shoulders of giants. 2022 Sponsor

    Medford Mass USA
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    I would replace the module and see if it works. A good spare to have, regardless. Same with the coil. You can measure the resistance of the coil primary and secondary and see if it's kaput. 1978 Chevy Nova with a 250 cid engine -

    1978 CHEVROLET NOVA 4.1L 250cid L6 Ignition Control Module (ICM) | RockAuto
    1978 CHEVROLET NOVA 4.1L 250cid L6 Ignition Coil | RockAuto
    1978 CHEVROLET NOVA 4.1L 250cid L6 Distributor Pickup Coil | RockAuto

    how to test a HEI distributor - Bing

    Or just get another Summit distributor. Ca $180.
     
  5. Apr 28, 2020
    lhfarm

    lhfarm Sponsor

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    Thanks. I've already replaced the module. At this point I think I'll just buy new.

    Appreciate the quick response.
     
  6. Apr 28, 2020
    sterlclan

    sterlclan Member 2022 Sponsor

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    a chevy straight 6 has the right distributor with the wrong drive gear,swap the gear off the old summit one.
     
    timgr likes this.
  7. Apr 28, 2020
    bigjohn

    bigjohn Active Member

    Kelso Wa
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    Mar 18, 2010
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    The dui units are very nice. But very spendy. I bought one second hand with love wires for $100 years ago and it's been flawless. If not that, I would do as Sterlcan suggested and just use your gear.
     
    Miller Mears and wheelsontheroof like this.
  8. Apr 29, 2020
    DrDanteIII

    DrDanteIII Master Procrastinator

    Milford NJ 08848
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    I've run a cheap Chinese HEI on my AMC for about 11 years. I used the original drive gear from the old distributor and haven't had a problem.

    also now that I realize its been +11 years, its probably time for a tune up.
     
  9. Apr 29, 2020
    Miller Mears

    Miller Mears Member

    Virginia Beach VA
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    Ok i agree they are pricey but the customer service is amazing and the unit is turn key. one wire and your done. i have an older deadrise boat with a V drive chevy motor. Gave the man on the phone my specs. two days later received a phone call from the guy who was assembling the dissy on the bench. Went over the fine points and four days later put it in the boat and set the timing, regaped the plugs and never looked back. Friend of mine is a big Outlaw dirt tracker and Davidson does a lot work with those cars
     
  10. Apr 29, 2020
    Miller Mears

    Miller Mears Member

    Virginia Beach VA
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    one more thing. makes crazy power but if it does have a failure standard GM parts will fit and get you home
     
  11. Apr 30, 2020
    lhfarm

    lhfarm Sponsor

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    Have ordered a DUI. Will let you know how it goes.
    Thanks
     
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