Aftermarket HEI units

[ted hanson]

I'm looking to replace my stock distributer on my small block Ford and Chevy engines. They're both late 60's vintage. It looks like there are plenty of aftermarket HEI distributers out there. Has anybody done this and if so, are there any drawbacks and what brand would you recommend??

[konigfritz]

I have, no drawbacks.

#1 Make sure you switch to an alternator that has an integrated voltage regulator. (for GM, not so sure about ford)
#2. Make sure you have really good grounds to the engine and body.
#3 You could convert to a 1 wire altenator, works great less wires.
#4 MSD makes a great unit if you are replacing the whole dist. If not a standard GM hei cap and coil will work fine.
#5 Should use coiled wired spark plug wires, not solid wire
#6 will probably have to change to a spark plug intended for HEI. slightly diff heat range.

Or you can use this http://www.pertronix.com/ignition_products/ignitor.htm

They work well, but I like my HEI better.

[Yellomantis]

Jacobs has worked for me in the past in my old 69 rs/ss