HEI module

[pav8427]

Had this over in electrical, This looks like a better place to ask.
I'm lookin for little things that might help a '79 smog motor run better.
Any benefit using a aftermarket performance ign module in an otherwise stock HEI?
If not, did GM use the same ones(module) in all apps?
Would a Corvette one be better than a truck?

Thanks, Doug

 

[tetomas]

Doug,
The module is the same for all non-ccc hei distributors, 4 pins, 2 on each end. one of the easiest things I did was an Accel Supercoil, I could actually feel the difference in the seat. Next on the list is opening up the exhaust as much as the law in your area allows, hi flow cats bigger pipes etc. Finaly an intake/cam swap would help alot, most of those motors would not pull past about 4700rpm with the factory cam so an aftermarket stick would help alot. I used to run and old grind patterned afer the 350 horse 327 corvette cam had .447 lift and 222 duration at .050, fairly choppy idle but it will run with a factory torque converter it just suffers a little off the line. That cam, some headers, a well tuned Q-Jet carb, a Torker II intake with 1 inch adapter plate, and a set of 3.55 gears took alot of money from unsuspecting street heroes back in the day. Those were the days!

 

[pontiacgp]

The ZZ4 engine came with a performance distributor, the module has a modified performance curve and takes more abuse than aftermarket and the stock module

 

[pav8427]

I'm going to concentrate on one system at a time. This is a very complete 50,*** 79 350 Olds.
Being that it has all its factory stuff, I want to try to do it all with stock parts. Atleast on the outside for now.
I'm shooting for a old school super tune using GM issue parts. The ignition has all good Delco parts.
The factory 700 cfm(?) Q-jet will get a fine tune and maybe an early intake if better.
Later a cat back single pipe bent to look factory w/ decent cat or test pipe and muffler.
I am even going to leave all smog stuff and see if there are any 'tricks' there.
Any ideas??

Ive read somewhere that more dwell in the module will kill a factory coil.
The modules I see in catalogs are rated in amps.
Any idea on how much a factory coil will take?

Doug