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Pertronix Ignitor: reliability & suitability

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T

twas_brillig

Jedi Knight
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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:

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


Your Pertronix Team,
Marvin Grebow Jr.


Technical Dept.​
 
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)
 
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