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Discussion Topic:
1946 Merc. convert to electronic ignition?
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Peder D |
09-15-2013 @ 7:39 AM
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Member
Posts: 95
Joined: Oct 2009
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Have been wondering whether this is possible. Been told from one source that I would have to rebuild to 12 volt. Others say, there is a unit for the flathead with 6 volt. So wondering if my 46 Merc with the original 6 volt can be converted to el. ignition? Anyone know? And if so, who sells these? Thanks, Peder
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supereal |
09-15-2013 @ 8:17 AM
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Senior
Posts: 6819
Joined: Oct 2009
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Yes, six volt conversions are available. As discussed frequently here, the stock distributor, when in good condition and properly set up, is usually good for years. At our shop, we see these when trouble arises. While they may have been improved, in the past they have been tempermental, mainly due to changes in underhood temperature. They tend to be expensive, a high price to pay for little or no improvement in performance. None of my cars has them.
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TomO |
09-15-2013 @ 8:49 AM
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Senior
Posts: 7250
Joined: Oct 2009
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When the electronic ignition systems fail, they do not give you any warning. In the past they have not been very reliable on the old cars. There are too many transient spikes that cause them to fail. I agree with Supereal that they do not perform any better than a properly set up distributor and a good coil. Pertronix sells a transducer to replace your points, but does not sell a 6V POS ground electronic ignition system. I do not know where you could get one.
Tom
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Peder D |
09-15-2013 @ 9:19 AM
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Member
Posts: 95
Joined: Oct 2009
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Ok, thanks to you both.
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