locked out distributor

[waldo786]

Hello all, I've found out that the fuel injection kit I want to use needs a locked out distributor. I don't exactly know what this means or how they work. I was suggested to get one from MSD, and I see you can get one that has a lockout feature, but they cost $400. I also saw in a search that someone wrote that GM HEI distributors after 1982 are locked out. Can someone tell me if this is true or shed more light on this for me? Thanks!

 

[lilbowtie]

My definition of locked out is no centrifical or vacuum advance. The only reason I run this way is for drag racing. My timing is set to 34 deg and doesn't change. I use a start retard in my box and take 20 deg out for starting - with a 4500 converter I am well beyond the advances and would just be another variable. You can lock-out any distributor.

 

[waldo786]

It seems like it has something to do with the timing being controlled by the computer as this is not for any type of racer. I just want the reliability and drivability of fuel injection.

 

[GuysMonteSS]

I use a Crane locked out distributor;
http://www.summitracing.com/int/parts/crn-1000-1511/overview/
It works very well and I use it with a Daytona Sensors ignition box.
Guy

 

[thepcsurgeon]

What EFI system are you talking about? FAST makes a good unit that is already locked out and they also have a kit to convert a HEI to use for EFI. I have the fast unit. Like Lilbowtie said, all can be locked out, usually requires a spot weld but the MSD HEI locks out with a bolt. The only technical issue with the MSD HEI is you cannot compensate for Rotor Phasing.

 

[online170]

You can lock your own distributor for next to nothing. Make sure you understand what you are doing before you do it though.

Heres what I did, i just used a drill and a file until it fit. I think this was a part of a hinge or something.
You will also need this part to lock out the vacuum advance.
http://www.summitracing.com/int/parts/pro-67022c






Here are some other ideas; (Use a plate, Weld, or Screw)
http://www.mez.co.uk/dcam/DSCF0326.JPG
http://www.stockcarracing.com/techa...ck_car_distributor_installation/photo_06.html
http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/994087.jpg
http://www.chevelles.com/showroom/data/500/medium/hei_advance.JPG

 

[online170]

I also saw in a search that someone wrote that GM HEI distributors after 1982 are locked out. Can someone tell me if this is true or shed more light on this for me? Thanks!

They might be referring to the electronically controlled distributors. If you remove your HEI cap and rotor and post a pic, we can tell you for sure. Such a distributor does not have any moving parts for the advance function, instead its electronically controlled. My buddy's 1984 Trans Am is like this.

 

[thepcsurgeon]

Here you go.....

 

[waldo786]

I'll have to take a pic of the rotor when I can, but from what I've read the 87 I have is a computer/electronically controlled HEI so I don't know. When I get a chance I'll take a pic and maybe we can determine what it is.

 

[olds307 and 403]

Yes, you can use your factory CCC computer controlled distributor off your 87. I am using one on my 94 4x4 to run an Olds 350 with factory TBI fuel injection.