should i use a MSD ignition?....

[digimurda]

hi all,
was just wundering what is the purpose of that red box (msd ignition)?
and should i install one in my 85 442'?

 

[Joltcola]

When reseraching it heres what I found..

"MSD stands for multiple spark discharge. What is does is sends significantly more voltage to the plugs for a more complete burn of the air/fuel mixture in the cylinder. The MSD ignition also fires throughout about 20 degrees of the crankshaft rotation as well, to aid in combustion."

 

[Joltcola]

And I would do research, you dont necesarily have to go with an MSD there are other companies out there that wont break the bank....Altho you can get a kit from Jegs for about $500 or so. which I dont think is bad at all.

 

[digimurda]

Do I need just the box? I saw it at Autozone for about $200

 

[Burnhard]

Just use good parts in your stock distributer like cap ,rotor, wire set and spark plugs. Make sure these parts are in top shape before spending any extra on a MSD.There are othres that are just as good and mabe even better.

 

[custom442]

The 6AL is just a capacitive discharge box, here's a video. Check out more on the web for CDI. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DT2clNrxOuM

Its cool but IMO if you're not really trying for that little extra mpg/low end drive-ability or another tenth off the quarter save the 200$. Just use an HEI distributor. The MSD box is one more thing to break. MSD has cool stuff but they're not known for reliability.

 

[Longroof79]

I agree with custom 442. Save your money. Maybe invest in a good set of premium spark plug wires, a HP ignition module, and a high output coil.

 

[digimurda]

ok,

so it wont make much of a diference..
i kinda didnt like the idea of having to find a place for that box in the hood, (drilling holes & ect..)
can you guys give me some references on set of premium spark plug wires, a HP ignition module, and a high output coil, and where the best prices are?

 

[Mike P]

MSD boxes have their place, but IMO for the cost that is not on a stock or mildly modified engine.

As mentioned they provide multiple spark thru about 20 degrees of crank rotation but that only occurs until the engine reaches 1500-2000 RPM, from that point on it only provides a single spark like any conventional ignition.

They do work very well cleaning up the idle and low RPM drivability of cars that have a stout cam but on a stock engine chances are you will notice no improvements in any area. You will have the “cool factor” of having a big, ugly, red, $175+, box hanging somewhere in your engine compartment (and depending on the tach you’re running a smaller $50 tach adaptor box to wire in).

I’m not anti MSD, I do run an MSD 6A and an MSD 6AL on 2 of my cars, but both of those cars have very stout street motors with a lot of cam in them. All my other have run stock factory electronic ignition including my (1st gen) LT1 and Cadillac powered El Caminos.

 

[custom442]

what are your goals for the ignition, what do you want it to accomplish? Is there anything wrong with your current distributor?
I just use a cheap vacuum/mechanical HEI with coil from ebay, going to keep using it till it breaks then I'll buy something better. And whatever stock copper plugs or recommended plugs (if aftermarket heads). I change plugs every year or so