New member, just starting dismantleing our 47 Pickup.
Want to keep the V8, once I see if it's cracked or not.
I did a quick search for HEI conversion, I see mention of it, but not a lot more. I run a GM conversion in my 52 Plymouth Flathead.
Can someone direct me with a link or info on this please?
Thanks in advance.
JD
Alan
This is not going to be a points truck, it's going to be a driver, almost daily.
If I can eliminate points, condenser with more dependable ignition system, then I want to go that way.
Alan
I am a long way from that decision, just kind of want to line some things up.
Thanks Alan,
John
I understand the concept of originality, but in my opinion HEI is a more reliable way to go if it is available. No matter what type make of car.
This message was edited by jd52cranbrook on 10-25-13 @ 3:34 AM
The dual point system gives better coil saturation than most solid state systems and is not prone to sudden failure due to voltage spikes or heat damage.
If you leave the truck at 6 volts POS ground, you can have a very reliable vehicle at less cost than changing to 12 volts NEG ground. Your truck doesn't have the accessories that modern cars have, so you really don't need the expensive change to 12 volts.
Tom
While it's true I am new to Older Ford Trucks, I an not new to old cars. I have run several over the years, no trailer queens, all drivers. I have driven from the Bay Area CA to Detroit MI and back 4 times over the years for Woodward Dream Cruise. So I have a good idea on what works and what is less dependable.
To think that a old points set up is more reliable than a HEI system is simply being unrealistic.
That being said, I can see this is a strictly original, NOS type forum, and it looks like I asked a taboo question.
My apologies.
I hope to find a group a bit more open to dependability rather than strict originality.
I thought the cool thing would be to get another old truck on the road, I didn't know there had to be rules as to how.
This message was edited by jd52cranbrook on 10-25-13 @ 8:43 PM
Alan
There are no taboo questions on this forum. The answers are from people that restore and drive their car on a regular basis. You may not get the answer that you wanted, but in most cases it is the best answer available.
I am sure that Alan just had a bad day when he responded. He is normally very helpful.
My response was derived from my experience of over 30 years of driving flatheads. In that 30 years, the points never failed. I have seen many electronic ignition systems fail over this same period.
As far as reliability goes, electronics are subject to sudden failure, without warning. Mechanical points generally give you a warning before they fail. Most people that have changed their flatheads to electronic ignition carry a spare points distributor with them in case of failure.
Tom
This message was edited by TomO on 10-26-13 @ 8:25 AM
It's certainly not my intent to step on anyone's toes here. I do have a lot of respect for keeping our vehicles original, and applaud the ones who do stick to the letter.
I have always loved old cars, dating back to getting permission to start and drive my mom's 41 Chevy in and out of the garage when I was young.
But I also like a bit more comfort, and even some modern devices in my drives. I don't build or restore old cars to show, I do so to drive them. The longer the trip the better I say. And yes, I do carry spares. I have replaced a head gasket on the side of the freeway in Idaho to the astonishment of two Highway Patrol Officers. That's part of the fun for me.
But I take pride in having every mechanical function of the car/truck very reliable, and functioning properly. I may bumble and stumble my way until I get there, but I do get there.
There is nothing more fun for me then to take my lady and me on a trip somewhere in our old car. She loves it just as much as I. In fact she has helped me in almost all phases of rebuild/restore.
I will do some more research, both through here and elsewhere. And try not to upset anyone further. After all, "It's all about the ride"
I want to add, it is not only the drives we enjoy, but the people we meet along the way, and at any event we do attend.
This message was edited by jd52cranbrook on 10-26-13 @ 2:15 PM
This message was edited by trjford8 on 10-26-13 @ 4:44 PM