Reply to "Electronic Ignition"

In terms of reliability, none of the aftermarket systems can touch the reliability of the Duraspark II ignition. The original modules were good for at least 100,000 miles. The distributors lasted a very long time, although the centrifugal advance mechanism performed erratically after 50,000 miles. I suggest using a Ford distributor calibrated for 20 degrees centrifugal advance (10L advance plate), with the advance starting above 1000 rpm, and "all-in" by 3000 rpm. Ford Duraspark distributors sourced from 1975-1982 351M, 400, and 460 V8s will drop right into a 351C. The MSD #8477 distributor can be used as a reliable substitute, it employs the same magnetic pick-up as the Ford Duraspark distributor. Its a bit taller than the Ford distributor, thus making clearance for various aftermarket intake manifolds.

In terms of parts availability, Duraspark II is an old OEM Ford system, thus parts are readily available at places that support old Ford parts. The wiring harness is available from any hot-rod parts business that sells parts manufactured by "Painless Wiring".

In terms of performance, the Duraspark II performs better than ignition points, and eliminates the need for periodic adjustment. However systems which use no ballast resistance, and which charge a proprietary coil using "dynamic dwell" are better than Duraspark II systems. The Duraspark I ignition (California only 1977 - 1979) was the first such system. Anywhere a Duraspark II can be installed, a Duraspark I can be installed as well, with a few modifications. I've detailed those modifications in "sticky #3".

Ford's TFI ignition replaced the Duraspark ignitions in the 1980s. It was the second Ford ignition to employ "dynamic dwell", and all Ford ignitions since the TFI ignition have also employed dynamic dwell. The Electromotive XDi distributorless ignition mentioned by Gary (Comp 2) in the reply directly above mine also employs dynamic dwell, its a damn good ignition too.