Amazon: Ignition again !!

[142 Guy]

A slightly lower cost (compared to a 123 distributor) to dealing with just a points / condenser issue is to replace the ignition points and condenser with a pertronix ignition module (there are one or two equivalent products to the Pertonix). This won't improve base line ignition performance; but, it will eliminate deterioration in the condenser and points wear as an ignition performance issue.

The other big factor to consider with B18 / B20 ownership is that the distributors are now typically 50+ years old. The advance mechanisms and the distributor shaft are likely suffering from wear which leads to dodgy ignition timing. Shaft wear can be fixed by a competent machinist. Advance mechanism wear is more difficult to address because of the lack of parts; but, can be fixed with some detailed machine work. Competent and detailed machine work is pricey. A 123 distributor is probably a lower cost option.

An automotive electrical specialist should be able to test your distributor. If the advance mechanism works as designed and the timing is steady, a Pertronix might provide you with a lower cost fix to your problem. Other wise, a 123 distributor might be the smart path.

[Bracpan]

I have a 123 on the way complete with a new coil and leads as im fed up trying to sort out the ignition.

[Bracpan]

I went though all different parts of the ignition and it still sounded and felt horrible.
So i fitted the 123 dizzy (From amazon cars with the unleaded curve) , new coil and leads...
Started the motor and OMG what a difference from the word go, its a lot smoother and pulls clean from low revs and has given me a lot more confidence in the car.
I only wish I fitted one a year ago and stopped trying to get the old dizzy working, which by the way was a 2 litre one in a 1.8 engine i imagine that didn't help either.
So my opinion on the 123 distributor FIT ONE ASAP.

[powen1]

Originally Posted by Bracpan

I went though all different parts of the ignition and it still sounded and felt horrible.
So i fitted the 123 dizzy (From amazon cars with the unleaded curve) , new coil and leads...
Started the motor and OMG what a difference from the word go, its a lot smoother and pulls clean from low revs and has given me a lot more confidence in the car.
I only wish I fitted one a year ago and stopped trying to get the old dizzy working, which by the way was a 2 litre one in a 1.8 engine i imagine that didn't help either.
So my opinion on the 123 distributor FIT ONE ASAP.

Totally agree - I had the same issue couldn't get it to run properly Also fitted 123 from Amazon cars with unleaded curve and new Bosch coil and new leads , Sorted :-) that's two satisfied customers ! :-)