Amazon: Electronic ignition with original coil

[AidanC]

Hi,

Is it possible to easily fit electronic ignition to an Amazon with the original armoured coil? I’ve seen references here to drilling the coil to access the positive wire but don’t want to do that. What other approaches can be taken?

Is there anything unique about the 12v supply at the coil? Could I just run a switched 12V supply to the ignition module positive from the fuse block?

[Burdekin]

A separate ignition system like megajolt or a 123 dizzy?

You just need +12v switched with ignition that is also on when cranking. You should just be able to leave the coil there if you want.

I did a write up on my megajolt install if you do a search, all pics are long gone though.

[AidanC]

Hi,

Sorry, I should have been a bit more specific- I was thinking of replacing my points and condensor with either a Powerspark or Pertronix unit, keeping the existing distributor which was refurbished a few years ago.

A help desk reply from one of the above companies said that the 12V supply to the ignition module must come from the coil positive even after I explained that it wasn’t easily accessible. I always thought of it as just a 12V supply but I’m not so sure now after they were so definite about using the coil supply.

[Burdekin]

This should help: http://sw-em.com/Volvo%20Ignition%20...rmored%20Cable

There will be folks who’ve done this install and can help.

[Ron Kwas]

Aidan;

You understand the underlying issue of needing to supply power, more importantly uninterrupted during Starting(!) the elec ign sys well, and how this is impossible when using the Ign Key to initiate Starting...but as long as you install a Momentary Start Switch at the same time you convert to elec ign (always a good idea, to save the Ign Key!), there no issue whatsoever powering the elec ign from terminal 54, because Loadshedding is out of the picture!

See: https://www.sw-em.com/123Ignition_in...ored_Cable.htm

The "diode cable" is an option, but as seen here (https://www.sw-em.com/Volvo%20Igniti...de_ORing_Cable ) the commercially made cables use an ultra-cheap 1A rated diode which has been known to fail. It is not my first choice, but iI I had to advise someone who absolutely insisted on using "diode cable" and their Ign Key for Starting (BAD!), I'd advise they use a 3A diode (like a 1N5406)!

Burdekin; Thanks for reference!

Cheers

[AidanC]

Thanks Ron,

Is your start switch kit plug & play for cars with a steering lock/ignition key combo? I’m guessing that the basics would be the same...