Rev limiter

[Michael Oritt]

I would appreciate hearing anyone's experience, opinions, etc. on electronic rev limiters. I know MSD makes one as does Pertronix ("Second Strike" I think.)

Thanks in advance.

 

[Tabcon]

Check out Mallory Ignitions also. I've been looking at their Unilite electronic distributor to replace the Petronix electronic one I have now. The Pertronix is not very well made in my opinion.

They have a wide assortment of programable units.

 

[Michael Oritt]

Tabcon--

If you referring to a Pertronix rev limiter (as opposed to ignition system) I would appreciate knowing any specifics you can give me that leads you feel the unit was not well made.

I am not aware that Malory produces a rev-limiter. I know that MSD makes one and that Unilite has two models--the standard version and the "Second-Strike" and it is these two that I have been looking at.

 

[Tabcon]

I'm talking about the Pertronix electronic distributor and high energy coil.
The unit came with an extremely cheapo cap that never did fit. I bought a new cap and it still never fit right. It was always sort of loose. Their coil began leaking soon after I installed it. I found their service poor also.

Mallory's rev limiter is included as part of their Hy-Fire ignition module. They have several to choose from with each having different features. If the rules allow you to use an electronic ignition system, Mallory has good stuff. I'm opting for their simple system. It doesn't have a rev limiter, but it's simple and I like simple...lol.

HYFIRE VIIS SPORTSMAN RACING IGNITION

HYFIRE VIIS Sportsman Racing CD Ignition Features At A Glance: Two rev limiters - adjustable from 1,000 to 12,000 RPM in 100 RPM increments. Single stage retard - adjustable from .1 to 25 degrees. Automatic start retard. 550 volts to coil primary, 150 mJ per spark. Easy reading top mounted digital display. Simple push-button adjustability. Easy to upgrade for more features. Easy to upgrade to 667C with purchase of #674M controller. Must use Mallory Coil #28880.
Model Number: 667S

 

[Michael Oritt]

Thanks Tab--

I am looking at a rev limiter to install on an FWE Climax-engined car that is new to me and I know will be a pretty free revver, so being used to running relatively sluggish pushrod engines I simply am looking at some insurance.

I use Mallory Unilite distributors on both my street Healeys and have had very good experience with these units. If they have a weak spot it is that they are sensitive to voltage spikes and I use ballast resistors with no bypass for starting, then to Lucas Sportscoils and then to the Unilite modules. I did not install the extra filter unit that Mallory offers but so far have had no problems.

On the Courier I use a 23D Lucas distributor with Unilite innards which has also worked out very well for me for the last few years and in any case I don't think there is room to mount a Mallory or other large disty between the block and right-side footwell.

 

[aeronca65t]

Just a general comment on my experience with the quality of the standard Pertronix ignitor unit:
For what it's worth, the ordinary Pertronix ignition unit that I've had in my distributor has been there for 6 years. No problems.
I run a Standard (that's the brand name) 12v coil and ballast resistor with solid copper wires (purchased as Autozone for under $20 total).
To me, the Pertronix coils look overpriced.
I've read good reviews on the Second Strike and it has a simple dial to set the limit (instead of various fixed chips that are used in the MSD).
This past weekend, I asked Ray Stone (45 years of Sprite racing and many, many championships) what he runs. Same Pertronix and solid core wires as me but a Lucas Sportcoil (Pertronix warns not to use solid core wires....that's why I asked him). He's had the same good service from Pertronix that I've had.

I am looking at a rev limiter to install on an FWE Climax-engined car that is new to me...

Michael. Don't tease us like that! What did you buy?

 

[ChrisS]

I had an MSD 6AL ignition box with the pill (resistor chip) type rev limiter and you need to be careful with electrical interference. It would break up randomly well before the rev limit. I chased it for a while until one day I pulled the chip at the dyno and the break up went away. I changed out the box to a crane and the problem didn't repeat itself. I know you are looking for a stand alone unit but just keep it in mind if you are using a high energy ignition and or solid wires.

 

[Deleted member 3577]

Pertronics here...No problems to report...
Nice smooth cut out when beyond limit & easy to adjust.

(Rev-Limiter not IGN system)

 

[Michael Oritt]

Hi Dave--

Good to hear from you.

Which Pertronix rev limiter are you using? The First edition is called "Digitial Rev Limiter" and has a four-wire connection set-up. The latest version is called "Second Strike" and has a five-wire hookup.

 

[Deleted member 3577]

Michael,

Been wicked-busy this summer...Raced 5 weekends but, that is about it.
Elva hasn't even been out this year.
This winter, it will slow down and I'll enjoy it if I'm not PTSD' out by then.

I have the 1st generation limiter and had no problems.
Some say cutting cylinders at max RPM jiggles the engine too much
Since I don't W2W the Elva, I think I'm gonna go with a RPM triggered buzzer.
(Like the old duce 1/2 Army trucks low air pressure one)

 

[DrEntropy]

Put a big LIGHT onna dash, Dave! Buzzers are hard to see. :wink:

 

[Deleted member 3577]

2nd gear starts gave me problems a couple of times...

Now I just keep my hand on the shifter to remind myself that I'm one gear lower than normal.

The only other time is when my normal shift point is interupted by dodging spinning cars or slow traffic...Still working on that one.

So far a real racing goes...A light at the normal shift point and a active limiter at something over that would probably be ideal.

(My hydraulic valves serve as a 'built in' limiter and the Pinto engine is to stupid to die)

 

[Hap Waldrop]

I had an MSD 6AL ignition box with the pill (resistor chip) type rev limiter and you need to be careful with electrical interference. It would break up randomly well before the rev limit. I chased it for a while until one day I pulled the chip at the dyno and the break up went away. I changed out the box to a crane and the problem didn't repeat itself. I know you are looking for a stand alone unit but just keep it in mind if you are using a high energy ignition and or solid wires.

Chris I had the same problem with a MSD soft touch rev limiter years ago, came on as a miss well before the rpm the chip quoted.

 

[MadMarx]

Since 3 races I use an Omega rev limiter.
It comes from England somewhere and does cost below $100 I think.

It has two ways of kill - soft and hard.

I use the hard limit action. Does work well. I feel one missfire at my shiftpoint.

Cheers
Chris

 

[billspohn]

I have never had any problems with the MSD I use on the race car.

Or you could go traditional with one of these....