[DeTomaso] Ignition Question

[steven.liebenow at att.net]

RE: the PI DuraSpark I info.....     

While George did a great write up on this all, what (I believe) he fails to realize or mention is that while if all of this info holds true for DuraSpark I ignition systems, they were only used a very short period of time.....    The DuraSpark II system is much more widely used and available.  While he maintains that the red strain relief modules have the 10 degree retard at start, this is the first that I have ever seen it......ever.....  It is more commonly held that the BLUE strain relieve module is the one with the 10 degree retard at start.

>From  a Ford tech bulletin published in 1977, they write that "on the 1974-1975 models only (seven wire control box) the blue lead acts as a "buffer" to carry off any temporary voltage surges which might damage the module. This lead has been eliminated on 1976 and later models."

In 1978 Ford introduced a "three connector" control box which added in a new "Dual Mode Timing" ignition system, where either a barometric pressure switch, or a vacuum switch to retard the timing under heavy load and advance it under high vacuum conditions. When retarded it reduces the possibility of detonation under WOT. Sounds like a handy feature also!

I still maintain that the availability of replacement parts while stuck in EBFE will be better for DuraSpark parts than with anything else but a set of points.... Worst case, a set of parts from a V6 or 4 banger can be used to repair a V8 unit!  (Pickup doesn't care how many teeth are on the armature...it just senses that a tooth passes by and says "hey! Spark!")   Same with the control box......it may indeed have some sort of unique curve for a non-V8, but in a pinch, it would get you home!

I'll try and bring some copies of this doc' to the meeting Thursday night.  It is small enough that it would fit in a tool box, or even glove box.  GREAT diagnosis section using simple tools such as a volt meter and probes.....

Steve