I have a '67 XKE that has been restored as a "semi-Lightweight," presently it has a Mallory dual point distributor which I would like to replace with a fully electronic/pertonix distributor. How complicated is this? Any thoughts, tips, tricks, etc?
Thanks
Ed

 

Ed

Pertronix Flame Thrower Distributor D177600 Standard (Engine Tune), Negative Ground, with Vacuum Advance with matching coil will work fine and is well supported. This assumes OEM engine compression. If you have any racing mod's you will want the higher performance distributor and it's matching coil (High Performance # D171618 distributor with Vacuum advance). Simple to install: Remove spark plugs and turn engine (CW from front only) until #1 cyl (aft cyl) on compression stroke is 8-10 degrees BTDC . Remove distributor cap and note rotor position. Loosen clamp (do not remove from block) and remove old distributor and install new Pertronix with rotor in same position ( a little engine oil on O-ring). Distributor drive dog has an off set so you will be on the mark or 180 degrees out. New plugs (non-resistance NKG) and modern ignition wires recommended. Check XKs unlimited for recommended part numbers, talk to them if you are unsure .... many on-line sites will refer you back to original spec plugs and wires, these should not be used with new electronic distributor . Static timing per Pertronix instructions is very easy, tighten clamp and attach two wires from distributor to new coil and you are set.

Shop around, someone always has these on sale, got mine on Amazon 35% off. For Plugs and wires, I just use 1984 XJ6 EFI model on web-sites to make sure I get latest spec wires and plugs. (Watch Bosch, good wires, but I have gotten 90 degree boots on distributor end when I thought I was getting straight push on boots)
Should be easy with great results.
Rgds
David