Hei distributor hookup

How does a HEI distributor work?

The HEI distributor is an inductive-discharge-style ignition, but with the points replaced by a solid-state switching device called an electronic ignition-control module. The module works like an electrical switch, turning power on and off to the ignition coil. This, in turn, causes the coil to generate spark.

What is the difference between a Hei and point ignition?

The HEI distributor is still an inductive-discharge ignition, but exchanges points for an electronic device called a module. Since this system produces more voltage and amperage output than a point-type ignition, it requires a larger-diameter cap to prevent voltage crossfire inside the distributor cap.

Can a HEI distributor be diagnosed?

Since diagnosing the module, pickup, and the coil of an HEI distributor is a little trickier than an old-school points distributor, we checked in with the folks at Performance Distributor to get some diagnostic input. The HEI distributor has eliminated the need to do roadside tune ups to a point-style distributor.

Why is there no spark coming out of my HEI distributor?

The HEI distributor has eliminated the need to do roadside tune ups to a point-style distributor. If, for some reason you have no spark coming from your distributor, the following will help you check and test the installation, connections, and components, of the unit so that you can get your engine running.

What is a HEI distributor on a car?

The HEI distributor consists of a control module and a magnetic pickup inside the housing that replaces the previously used contact points and condenser. The control module’s function is to provide the same ignition pulse as the breaker points previously found in a points and condenser system.

How do you hook up a HEI distributor to a tach?

The factory style filter looks like a condenser with a wire and connector on each end, one of which plugs onto the HEI distributor, and the other onto the tach lead wire. Hooking this filter device in series between your distributor and tach should allow your factory tach to work in harmony with your new electronic distributor.

What is the difference between a Hei and point ignition?

The HEI distributor is still an inductive-discharge ignition, but exchanges points for an electronic device called a module. Since this system produces more voltage and amperage output than a point-type ignition, it requires a larger-diameter cap to prevent voltage crossfire inside the distributor cap.

Can a HEI distributor be diagnosed?

Since diagnosing the module, pickup, and the coil of an HEI distributor is a little trickier than an old-school points distributor, we checked in with the folks at Performance Distributor to get some diagnostic input. The HEI distributor has eliminated the need to do roadside tune ups to a point-style distributor.

Why is there no spark coming out of the distributor?

Loose, broken, or corroded wires in the ignition module can be a reason behind no spark from distributor. Cleaning oxidized terminals and replacing broken wires is a good decision. A Problem with Ignition Coil The ignition coil turns the weak battery power into a powerful spark.

Why is there no spark coming from my ignition module?

Some external input is required to help ignition modules do the task. Loose, broken, or corroded wires in the ignition module can be a reason behind no spark from distributor.

Can a HEI distributor be diagnosed?

Since diagnosing the module, pickup, and the coil of an HEI distributor is a little trickier than an old-school points distributor, we checked in with the folks at Performance Distributor to get some diagnostic input. The HEI distributor has eliminated the need to do roadside tune ups to a point-style distributor.

Why is my distributor not firing up?

This low voltage could be insufficient to get the distributor to fire. Use a volt meter to test the hot wire while a buddy cranks the engine over. If the voltage drops below 10.5, check your battery.