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Pertronix Ignitor: reliability & suitability

twas_brillig

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There was some discussion regards the Pertronix Ignitor on the Spridget side and I contacted Pertronix, asking if their Ignitor was still subject to failure if it was left switched on without the engine running; if so, how long it could be left before failure; and if the Ignitor II was available for positive ground. Here's their reply:

************************************

Doug,

You are correct about leaving the key on. The amount of time is really hard to say for certain. On your application I would estimate no longer than five minutes.

Sorry the ignitor II is not available in positive ground.

Your Pertronix Team,
Marvin Grebow Jr.

Technical Dept.
 

Michael Oritt

Yoda
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Leaving the ignition on without the engine running will also do in a set of points if they are closed enough for the spark to arc.
 
Last edited:

steveg

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I fried a Pertronix I in a lot less than 5 minutes. IIRC it was closer to 1 minute. The label bubbles when they're fried.

Supposedly the Pertronix II has built-in protection against that, but I don't intend to find out.

If you're doing testing that requires the ignition to be on with the engine off, disconnect the 12v supply wire at the coil.
 

Keoke

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Just don't do none of those bad things The instructions tell U not to do ] U did read them HUH ? [ N they will last forever.----LOL
 
OP
T

twas_brillig

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I read the instructions back in the day, but after ten years or so on the first install.... Good comment on pulling the coil wire - thanks Steve. Pertronix was good about replacing the one I fried a number of years back - can't remember if I paid shipping, but the fix/repair/whatever was no charge. Doug
 

Keoke

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Sorry the ignitor II is not available in positive ground. N Why ????


Your Pertronix Team,
Marvin Grebow Jr.


Technical Dept.
 

Keoke

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RAC68

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Hi All,

Yes, the Crane has external (to the distributor) main components that must be placed in a reasonably cool spot in the engine compartment. However, it seems quite resilient and very stable. I have a Pertronix in my TR7 and I do like the fact it is incognito and haven't needed to touch it for the past 10 years so far. That's still very good reliability.

Ray(64BJ8P1)
 

dougie

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