Simple Solutions For The GM HEI Ignition and The Lost Spark!

[@Psalms144_1_2]

I installed an HEI on my 1969 F250,240ci inline 6, ran perfect, drove it and parked it, tried turning it on and it would just crank. I followed your video, and BAM. Thank you. Great video brother.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

So glad to be able to help! These things are pretty simple and easy to figure out with some basic trouble shooting.

[@wacoldestv1704]

Thank you so much brother! My 82 monte is doing same issue. I got the distributor open right now. Looking through KZbin. Bigg help there!

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Glad to help! These seem to be failing at an alarming rate. If you want to bullet proof it, check out my other video where I put the MSD module into it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bqLEp4Obqr1qicU

[@locobrown]

@@SnowFamilyRacing In my experience, its the heat that kills these modules. Try Artic MX-6 compound paste instead of the silicone grease.

[@jdgreen214]

I had this problem on my 92 gmc typhoon. I have bought about 15 of these modules. Not sure if its the turbo heat or what but about 2 months is its limit. I currently have my truck in the shop for a complete rewire and we are controlling everything with a maxxecu. The distributor will be replaced with the holley dual sync distributor. It will eliminate all the problems i have had with the icm. Also it will go from batch fire injection to SFI injection similar to my grandnational. Its about 15k for the process. I know its not cheap but i don't want to LS swap such a rare vehicle. I know a lot of people who collect older vehicles like them OEM but as i found out with my grandnational this was the 1st time vintage computer controled vehicles have started to come into their value. Say a 68 camaro or a 67 mustang its a lot easier because they don't have a lot of electronics to affect their running conditions. Wiring gets old and starts to fail or melt together due to the low end Wiring used on these vehicles from factory.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

I can totally understand that. Especially the early computers were still very low on power. Some of these vehicles seem to destroy modules, and it could be heat or voltage spikes or any combination of stuff.

[@brianyoung9014]

I've been a mechanic since the mid 1970s and the modules in the late 70 threw the early 90s held up well, all the new modules are made in china and are junk.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

The module I put in lasted a whole 7 days. I warrantied it out, replaced it to keep the car going, and ordered an MSD module. There's a follow-up video I made and installed the MSD module. I've been seening more failures on electronic components in the last few years, it's getting bad!

[@mikehughes5175]

​@@SnowFamilyRacingthe

[@FLSTF87]

Yep. I just had a new icm from Singapore installed early may. Failed Saturday. I plucked a used oem GM icm off an old abandoned chevy G-van. Installed and the engine fired right up strong

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

@FLSTF87 yep, the replacement parts failing are what led me to swap in the MSD HEI module, which I cover in another video. So far, the MSD module has been completely trouble-free.

[@rickobrien4014]

If you install an MSD box you will no longer need the module. They also sell a high quality module as well. The original GM modules are actually quite good. The replacements that you buy at most auto part stores are a gamble at best if long life is your goal.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Part of the decision was the car was needed to be back up quickly and I couldn't justify stepping up to the MSD box or module, i could swap the module that day as opposed to waiting for parts. My El Camino has the MSD HEI distributor, it ran the high end MSD module for many years without issue. I stepped up to a 6AL in that car, and it's been good there, too.

[@TrailPony]

Presently chasing a sudden crank no-start issue. It’s getting fuel, spark plugs are a bit rough so replacing, but I’m thinking this is going to be the resolution at the end of the day. I’ve avoided the HEI hoping it wasn’t related… but it appears the time has come 😂 Thank you for the extremely thorough video from someone learning on her own ❤

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Start checking voltages and easy stuff first! The HEI isn't particularly scary and is pretty easy to work with! You've got this!

[@TrailPony]

@@SnowFamilyRacingthank you for the encouragement. I dove into replacing it yesterday and it took such little time/effort. It was VERY easy, but sadly didn’t remedy my problem 😞

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

I'm glad to hear it was easy, and I'm sorry to hear that wasn't the solution! I do have another video that's about troubleshooting electric problems on these cars. Basically, chasing the wiring from the battery to the distributor. I'm sure you'll get it figured out, and I'll also do what I can to help answer any questions you may have.

[@locobrown]

My ignition coil has a date stamp 7/18-1984 and the ignition module is about to fail as I've just began to experience hard cold starts. Cold hard starts will make you believe otherwise so do not be deceived by this condition. A weak spark can turn over an engine just barely. You'll begin to consider other components to be at fault when the fault is in the distributor. AC Delco Remy is quality so if you can source NOS replacements stock up while there're available. Ignition modules cannot be diagnosed while stranded so its much easier to replace, and we should already know the behavior of our vehicles at this point. The ignition coil rarely fails and in most cases the magnetic pickup is fine. Carry a couple of these ignition modules in your glove box with some Artic MX-6 compound paste. Heat is what kills the modules, so if you are swapping these often, its the heat. The silicone grease, in my opinion, does not dissipate heat effectively so Artic Silver for me.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

No argument, heat is an issue. Based on what I'm hearing from friends that do this professionally and the people sell the parts, new electronics are failing at an alarming rate.

[@joe-hp4nk]

I run the high end MSD module with a brute thunder accel coil in my small block, 0 misses all the way up to 7000RPM. It's been there almost 10 years.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

The MSD module is a really good piece! Since this Monte is still being driven daily, I needed it back up fast. The MSD module is definitely a worthwhile upgrade, and I'm definitely going to get one for this car.

[@floydnine5025]

Man I'm thinking of getting a higher-quality one now too, I mean I've heard guys talk bout them failing....is that Delphi brand junk as well?

[@thechillhacker]

Yeah, that's why I went the other way to replace my bad CCC controlled HEI: a NOS points distributor. Nice and maintainable. Not to mention it's cheap and easy to keep a spare set of points, adjustment/cleaning tools, and condenser in the glove, just in case. The OEM pickups are decades old, and new ones are made like garbage. If you want real reliability, purely electromechanical is the way to go, at the price of having to actually do your regular maintenance.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Absolutely nothing wrong with that approach!

[@herbnalis3723]

' Sparkrite' module on eBay connects to points & runs coil taking load of points & has a off switch so points only if module box fails.

[@Chuncy566]

If I go back to points, can I still use the same plug wires or are they different on the cap end,& can I change the ends. Is there a place to mount the coil on the manifold ? Any other problems?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

@Chuncy566 you'll likely be swapping distributors, most of the points type caps have a different terminal, you'd best just do new plug wires, no idea on where you'd put the coil, I don't have your car in front of me. I don't know what you've got or what you're working on, so I can't answer some of that.

[@thechillhacker]

@@SnowFamilyRacing Typically correct. Most HEIs use a male terminal on the cap, and a female boot on the wire. most points caps are the opposite, although there are some specialty ones that cross over. Really, its not that hard to chop the ends and crimp new terminals on anyway. If you do this, don't cheap out on the points. Buy Blue Streaks. Parts store points have no way to hold lubrication (gun oil soaked into the pad of the blue streaks works pretty well. oil, not grease for these) and in my experience the rubbing blocks wear away in way too little time - and yes, of course I greased the cam for the parts store junk to no avail.

[@WilliamStrawnJoe]

Good video. Straight to the point! Keep posting.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Thanks!

[@SamsWreckinYard]

So glad I found your video, I didn’t know that heat paste was needed under the module. I’ve swapped out whole distributors/coil/rotors but never swapped out the module. Appreciation sir

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

It's one of those things that is easily overlooked. I'm glad to have shown it effectively and that you found value in!

[@grapeape780]

Thanks for mentioning the different ign module pin count.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

That's something that stumped me many years ago and it's worth mentioning!

[@lesliemclean4381]

Awsome video.Straight to the point ,Straight to the problem.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Thanks! Glad to help! The fix isn't terribly hard. It's just never convenient when it does hit.

[@christianrondon9785]

Keep up the good work man. I appreciate your concise style.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Glad to help! Thanks for the good words. I've got more coming!

[@samstrolia]

Honestly super solid video. Thanks for sharing.

[@shop6709]

don't forget to check for an ignition rotor that burnt a hole to the dist. shaft

[@donnieronald3641]

What would the symptoms of this be?

[@JakeHughes-oo7gy]

Good vid sure is handy with these videos on auto repairs.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Glad to help! I'm doing the best I can to keep them coming!

[@tikitaka9319]

I have a 94 gmc Sonoma. I’ve replaced the distributor cap and rotor, the fuel filter, and the coil and the battery, I’m gonna a try this and I hope it will resolve my issue. Car turns over but no crank distributor gets no arc/power

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

That's likely a hall effect style distributor on the TBI GM engines. I don't have any resources on those.

[@radeakins]

Just had this happen in my Caddy. Started, ran for a couple of minutes then died. Check the normal stuff: Fuel, air and spark, in that order. No spark. I live in the UK so I've had to fast order a 7 pin hei and it'll arrive any minute how. $55. The caddy died at work, its been there for 3 days and I finished my night shift 2 hours ago. Waiting for Fedex to drop it off so I can go fit it.

[@radeakins]

@dimebagvision3221 Yeah. Part arrived about 3 hours after making the comment. Fitted it and she fired first time. Three days without my Caddy felt weird and honestly don't want to repeat that scenario. They're also pretty rare over here.

[@charlespartak2435]

Thanks for your video. Ive had my engine stall out twice and towed home. I just pulled my distributor and testing the coil now. My coil is junk. Fyi, jegs gm blueprint HEI. Idk who makes these but it didn't last 4 hrs.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

I've been hearing of other house brands having trouble, that confirms it. As time moves on, I'm moving to the buy once cry once philosophy. Buy the good one and be done.

[@Grady_OBS]

Here my issue. Ford 302 5.0 with e303 and carb swap. Idles really rough with the GM HEI. After roughly 1500 rpm is clears up and runs beyond perfect. Revs up quickly too. Could my issue be the part you’re talking about or am I looking at a bad coil? Coil didn’t quiet test to specs but then again, if it didn’t test to specs, why was it running perfect above 1500 rpm? Wouldn’t it run worse? I’m beyond confused

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Electronics failure is strange, and sometime they defy logic. HEI coils are pretty cheap. If it might be suspect, I'd be inclined to swap both the coil and module. If funds allow, the MSD module is a really good option. Also, keep an eye on how the idle circuits on the carb are set up. This may be a symptom of overly rich at idle and just off idle. I would start at the ignition since you have reason to believe there could be an issue.

[@Grady_OBS]

@@SnowFamilyRacing I have thought about just replacing the whole HEI, as ironically enough in my area, it’s cheaper. Carb is a edelbrok 1406 600CFM so I’m thinking it’s fine however I’m more leaning towards spark. Not sure why but I’m trusting my gut in this one. Just got into carbs and hei’s so learning everything I can

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

I'm going to agree with your gut. Ignition seems likely here. Carbs are easy, I do a lot of tuning with a vacuum gauge. Every change will have an effect on the vacuum reading.

[@anthonyarmenta1080]

I’m not getting any reading on the wire at all… to bypass it I ran a switch. Positive wire to the battery then a wire from the coil to the witch and grounded it. It worked for a day or so and then I was losing power while driving. I then replaced the connector on the original wire and got a reading, was working good till today, now I’ve got no reading, even after removing the new connector I was still getting no reading on the bare wire. I’m not sure what to do. I know the wire goes through the firewall to the fuse box up to the key ignition. Im going to replace the wire but if it doesn’t work, would I be replacing the fuse box and wiring ??

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

From here you need to check for power all along the way. You've got a bad connection somewhere. Could be ignition switch, could be a bad connection in the fuse block, could be something along the way. I have an electrical troubleshooting checklist in the description of the video I'm sharing at the end of this comment and it offers a step by step on how to chase down wiring issues. Go look at both of those, and I also have another video that shows how to get the fuse block free and fix something in there. kzbin.info/www/bejne/epuseZ5meJeKeck

[@TorontoModifiedKarKlub]

Great video. You are right there are some coming into the hobby may not know of this. Videos like yours help keep new enthusiasts going. Side note. Is that a Thermo Quad carb on your car. And a Buick beside your Monte.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

It's a Road Demon Carb. It works for what it's doing. It's neither a good nor bad carb. The Buick is a '65 Riviera. There's a lot of videos about bringing that beauty back to life. I want to make sure that this info is out there so that new people can find it and work on their classics. I want to help grow this hobby by making good information easily available and show that none of this is particularly hard to do.

[@TorontoModifiedKarKlub]

@@SnowFamilyRacing Good job. I like that carb. I will check out your other videos.

[@vincentdow5899]

I've got an H.E.I. on my 1973 Chef K20. It was installed by a super old school mechanic in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, back in (oh) 2008. It made that truck run so well, for so long. I needed to sell the truck a few years ago to get it off the property, and my dad put a new battery in it, but he reversed polarity (the wires themselves were reverse color-coded) bummer. Hasn't started since. I don't know the vintage of the HEI as it is not stock. From watching your video I think I'm going to just pull out the module and take it over to Auto-zone. I hope they can match something up. You didn't need to check the timing after pulling the cap?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

I might on my race car, not on this one. There's a locating detent that the cap fits into so that that only goes on in one orientation. The common module is the 4 pin for non computer controlled engines. There's a 7 and 9 pin variant for the computer controlled models. For the parts store people, just about any Chevy V8 car or truck used the same part. My go-to for stuff like this is a 78 Monte Carlo with a 350. That gets me the common things like a module.

[@Anthony-ue4zm]

Replaced my cap rotor and coil and still no spark. I will be trying this in the AM. Thanks!

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

The module is probably the most common failure point on these and it's easy to check the coil and verify power to the distributor on your way through since you're there. If you have the time and the budget, take a look at the MSD HEI module over a parts store replacement. It can be a good upgrade, otherwise, there's nothing wrong with a good replacement module.

[@Anthony-ue4zm]

@@SnowFamilyRacing Thanks for that tip. I will get that MSD module. I found some US NOS stock ignition module hoping it is better than the generic store aftermarket replacements.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Here's a link to the video I made covering the MSD module. I do have a link to the module in the description of that video to make it easier to locate one. Best of luck! kzbin.info/www/bejne/bqLEp4Obqr1qicU

[@Anthony-ue4zm]

Good News, I was able to get the SBC to crank over and run and idle right after changing out the Ignition Module. However there is still a super weird issue where the car would idle/warm up and then randomly stall. Would this be a carb issue? The fuel pump is working because I have clear filter in front of the carb and see plenty of fuel. Once I force the warm up of the car seems to run fine. Not sure if its something with the carb letting in too much air if possible vaccum leak or choke issue. @@SnowFamilyRacing

[@Bigislandguy]

I have a 88 cutlass with the stock 307 motor. It sputters most the time but sometimes runs good. I got new plug/wires and I even replaced the carb and fuel pump. Compression is good so idk what else it could be. My exhaust smells super rich yet I did jet down the carb and I have the same issue. Now I’m wondering if it’s something to do with my timing , this car was computer controlled but someone removed all the wires and smog when they removed the Rochester carb. My plan is to install a cheap eBay distributor with vacuum advance and see how it goes. I hope it works.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

When going from computer controlled to non computer controlled, you need the carb and distributor to be non computer controlled. What are your plugs looking like? That's the giveaway of how it's running. Just because you jetted down may not fix a rich, especially at idle, condition. You'll want to adjust your idle circuits, too.

[@Bigislandguy]

@@SnowFamilyRacing yeah I already have a edelbrock, and I installed the new distributor with vacuum advance today. Shot the timing to 20degrees. Now I can actually drive the car. Plus is doesn’t burn your eyes as much. lol It still has issues though. I noticed when shooting the ignition timing. It would run way pass the 20 degree mark when revved slightly, 12-1500rpm Is that normal? Yes the vacuum advance hose is disconnected.

[@pjmazar4533]

Thanks for the clear concise video and testing parameters. What do you do when it won't start yesterday but fires up and runs fine today?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Start checking for loose connections and things that aren't the way they're supposed to be.

[@danielweisman496]

Thank you for the video! I have an ‘84 Caprice that’s running a bit rough at idle. I was hoping your video would show the actual procedure of removing the ICM. Did you shoot video of that?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

It's got 2 screws and an electrical connector on each end, and it's under the advance mechanism under the rotor. There wasn't a good way to get my hands and camera back there. It's really easy. All of the parts come off easily.

[@carlosbarraza8026]

I’m having this exact same problem and I’m following this video step by step. So far i have 10 almost 11 volts at the wires to the distributor and my coil seems good based off the numbers in this video. Next thing is to change the ignition module but I’m wondering, do i need to buy an MSD ignition module as I’m using an MSD distributor or can i use an AC Delco from Autozone?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Low voltage at the distributor should be your first place to fix. Get proper voltage and then see what it does. If it's not a factory style module, I'd replace It with the same or newer model part.

[@caln9ne16]

Awesome video. I was wondering how to chang it from computer controlled to the 4 pin mechanical style? Please help thanks

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

You will need to replace the distributor completely as the computer controlled one does not have a mechanical advance. Any basic HEI from Summit or Jegs would work.

[@74G__]

I picked up a 1980 regal with a 4.3 that sat for 20 years. No spark even after replacing the ignition module. Any recommendations?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

I'd recommend this video I made. This one walks you through what to verify from the battery to the distributor. You'll want to check for power all along the way until you find the issue. kzbin.info/www/bejne/epuseZ5meJeKeck

[@pauljanssen7594]

As a mechanic, I ran to an issue where people were put on the cheap Is spark plug wires I'd ask Them where did you get the Where's from Yip, they bought the cheap ones. And that was their problem with their mission system causing the module to overheat

[@floydnine5025]

Hah! Never thought about it that way. Valid point, maybe thats the golden ticket! Get them blue wires! I don't mind with that kinda stuff, because they actually last longer, for the most part.

[@jacobpollmann4596]

I have an 85 Chevy pickup with an hei. A while ago, I went to start it and had no spark. I grounded plugs and had nothing. I changed out the cap, rotor and coil and still had nothing. Randomly one day it fired back up and I drove it for a couple days. Then all of a sudden, it died on me and I had the same issue again. I believe that this is the issue, but this is my first vehicle that I have ever worked on. Any thoughts? Thanks!

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Intermittent issues are likely caused by loose connections. You need a wiring diagram and start chasing wires to ensure you have good connections everywhere. If the steering column is loose at the tilt mechanism, that can push on the ignition switch funny and cause problems. I've got a video about reading wiring diagrams, that video also has a link to an electrical diagnostic checklist. I've also got plans for several electrical diagnostic and troubleshooting videos. Stay tuned!

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Here's a link to the video I did about reading wiring diagrams. kzbin.info/www/bejne/h36ylYN7eJJ2pKs

[@TateSnow]

Have a 79 ' camaro has hei distributor , don't know why it keeps burning up coils ?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Those kinds of things can go bad due to improper voltage to the distributor and it's components. You'll want to know what kind of voltage the alternator is putting out to help figure this out.

[@DominiAeternum]

Would a bad ICM cause the car to completely die & lose power when you make a hard turn or slow down at a stop light & intersection or down hill?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Doubtful, unless you have a very loose connection that loses good connection all the time. That sounds like it could be a fueling issue. Remember, it's very hard to diagnose a problem over the internet. Best I can do is generalities.

[@floydnine5025]

No, and no. Try using the clutch. Third pedal to the left.

[@nathanperkins3416]

Well I need a little help the only way my car will start if I take a jumper wire to battery to the pink wire on my distributor all my fuses are good what will it be

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

First, check out my electrical diagnostic checklist on my website to help you find the issue. Second, I'm betting on ignition switch, but I can't diagnose that over the internet. There's an interrupt in line somewhere and you'll need to spend some time with a wiring diagram and a volt meter to correctly find it.

[@CLASION6]

What’s a good brand or one to get like the d2000 flame master

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

The MSD is my choice. Here's a video I did about swapping in the MSD module on that same Monte Carlo. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bqLEp4Obqr1qicU

[@donnieronald3641]

Please please please, point me in the direction of how you go from the 7 pin to a 4 pin. I have an 87 El Camino that had a 350 put in but they left the “computer” and 7 pin dist in it and it’s giving me hell. Without boring you with all the details I’ve narrowed it down to the dist and coil. I’ve thrown too much money at it and want to just convert it to the 4 pin because I’m stupid and it seems like 4 is easier to understand than 7. I’ve been researching this for a while but can’t find anything helpful other than people philosophizing about what year it is and the ohms this and Volts that.. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

When you swap from a computer controlled car, you need both a non computer controlled carburetor and distributor. The easy way to do that is to go to Rock Auto and pick an older year of the car you have that isn't computer controlled and pick up the parts. For a Small Block Chevy, I'd go to Summit and get a normal HEI distributor. If you need a carb, that can also be acquired there too. The basic ones will do fine. The power wire to the distributor that's in the wiring harness will be just fine to use. Once all the computer controlled stuff is removed from the engine, the harness can be removed, though it does take some work. This is a simple swap. Remove the old and put the new one in, set the timing, and you should be great!

[@bobjannotti3453]

Lancia used an hei module like this one to fore there ignition as well,the difference was the module was mounted to a heat sink on the firewall could this be duplicated for longer module life?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Yes, it really wouldn't be that hard to do. It's basically extending a few wires and running them externally. A question I have, and I may be thinking waaaayyyy too deep. I'm wondering if there could be latency issues from extending the wires. I kinda don't think so because my MSD box has a 4 foot wire from the magnetic pick up and about 20 inches to the coil. I think it's a viable experiment. The variable comes in with the consistency of manufacturing them. I know that not all new parts are created equal. So, in theory, yes, I believe running this external to a heatsink could work and be effective.

[@gearheadhotrodder9223]

What if the could picks up nothing when I test the secondary winding

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

If you tested the coil and it's not between the ranges, then it's probably bad.

[@briannielsen7176]

I'm experiencing it right now with a rebuilt engine. There is no spark on cylinder 1

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

That is a possibility that the module could be having problems. In the event that a module doesn't help, I might start to wonder about the magnetic pick up. That's a bit more involved and requires the distributor to be removed and the gear taken off the end of the shaft.

[@MikeMcElwee]

Thanks! I'll give it a try!

[@eight-dg3oz]

Thank you it was exactly that

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Great! Glad to help!

[@jeepguymb45]

My 93 vet has a different ICM. Can you do a similar video showing my car ?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Only way I can do that is if I have one in front of me to do the video with. I don't have anything from that era to show. My understanding is that GM went to a Hall effect style distributor and had some different components.

[@MachTuck]

I have a BBC, #2 and 3 cylinders dont fire, could it be the ignition module?? thank you

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

You may want to verify that the plugs and wires are in good shape first. Are you sure they're electrically dead and not something like a valve train issue?

[@MachTuck]

@@SnowFamilyRacing Thanks for replying! I pulled the heads to have them checked, they checked ok. Will make sure wires and plugs are good, even though I checked that months ago, and just adjusted the rockers, will start it in the next few days, but I heard from a tech that the issue may be the ignition module. I have compression and fuel pressure

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

The ignition module isn't likely to drop 2 cylinders consistently unless the magnetic pickup is damaged on the reluctor for those 2 cylinders. My experience is that the module is typically all or nothing. I've seen one go bad more slowly, but that was a very rare case. My gut says that there's a simple oversight there. I do want to say, it's very hard to diagnose this stuff over the internet.

[@MachTuck]

@@SnowFamilyRacing Reluctor, is that part of the module?. All this started when I left water in the engine during the winter, the block cracked, I noticed after I stopped and check the oil, water and oil mixed, I thought due to the water inside the engine, it couldnt rev up, well, got a new block, transfered everything to the new block, and it still does the same, not reeving past 2700 rpm and 2 dead cylinders. ECM checked ok. Thanks again for your replys

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Okay... you just brought up ECM. What year and size engine are you working on? ECM's totally changes the game... now there could be whole multitude of things that get added to the issue. In an older HEI, the reluctor triggers the magnetic pickup. It is inside the distributor with the magnetic pickup. It's got 8 points on it.

[@thomasbaker-d6e]

everytime i install a new ign module it works once then burns out ??? Can you give me any ideas please ?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Without knowing any more about your set up, it sounds like you have either a grounding issue or an issues where the voltage is too high. Best place to start is grab a Volt meter and a wiring diagram, check for continuity to ground on the ground side of the module. You will also need to know what kind of voltage that you have both not running and running.

[@StevenHolub-o1n]

I had the same issue. It's every morning or if it sits over 30 mins I run into no start only crank sometimes I can get it to stary but now its just dead in water on it

[@StevenHolub-o1n]

But this on my Plymouth fury

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

My Mopar friends all move away from the Chrysler electronic ignitions.

[@kevecollins5267]

Same issue with my 77 Buick I need help. It will crank up run great but when it sits for 30 mins no start just cranking

[@bryanj4811]

Very good video!

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Thanks!

[@JodiClark-ye9wu]

Hi so my husband wants me to ask why this keeps going out we know what this part is we have changed it out many time but do not know why it keeps going out also changed out the whole distributor did not change anything sill goes out we order 2 at a time have ordered cheap and expensive no difference please help if you can

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

There are a few reasons. First, there's a quality problem with where the current off the shelf parts are made. I've had the best luck with Napa for off the shelf electrical parts. Next, you may have a voltage issue like the alternator may be putting out too much voltage. The engine may also have a grounding issue. Check both power and ground. Lastly, I've got another video on my channel about swapping to the MSD ignition module. I've done that on several cars and haven't had to mess with them again. Between all of those things, you should find an answer.

[@jasonreyes8947]

What Duralast part number was that? Thanks.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

I don't recall. It's a replacement for a '79 Monte with a 350. They're pretty much all the same until you get to the Computer Controlled ones. The best part to use is the MSD ignition module. I've done a video on that part, and it's totally worth the money to upgraded.

[@jasonreyes8947]

@@SnowFamilyRacing ok, thank you very much.

[@royshashibrock3990]

Just wanted to remind anyone doing this upgrade about a safety feature of these "big cap" HEI distributors. If you attempt to start the engine with no fuel in the carburetor bowl (no fuel getting to the cylinders), the module will sometimes shut down and the engine will not fire or run. From that point, as long as the key is not turned fully off, the safety will remain turned on, and the distributor will not function. To reset it, turn the ignition key fully OFF (no power to the distributor), wait 8-10 seconds, and then try again, this time, making sure fuel is getting to the cylinders. Even foreign made versions of this distributor have this feature. This happens because inductors (coils) pull more current when the resistance it sees increases. If there is no fuel in the air around the plug, the resistance seen by the coil increases greatly, which in turn means the coil in the distributor will try to "sink" a much higher current. To prevent overheating and destruction of the ignition coil, as well as damage to the electronics, a type of auto-reset circuit breaker was implemented in the module. Once activated, it will remain "on" as long as there is power to the module, and can be reset as described above. My guess is that it was too expensive to implement current limiting in the module and this was the solution used. I can't tell you how many guys I know who thought the distributor went bad and got rid of them because they did not know the above.

[@ljbolin8360]

I want to look at that Buick Riviera behind you

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

There's lots of videos on my channel that I'm working on that beautiful Riviera. It's got an extensive playlist where I rebuild the suspension, make some upgrades and get it going again. There's even videos where my dad and I take it to a local road course for some amateur night fun! Check those out!

[@DonNixon-mv7mi]

Can the condenser go bad and won’t start

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

I've not experienced one with a bad condensor, I can't say.

[@thisisyourcaptainspeaking2259]

It's possible the module failed due to a defective coil. I'd replace the coil as well. Use real heat sink compound when mouting the module, not just silicone grease. If this is a vacuum advance distributor with a 4-pin module, the reluctor pickup wires will break over time due to the back and forth action of the vacuum advance. Always keep a spare module in your glove box, in compliance with murphy's law.

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

The coils on these are pretty tough, I've changed bad modules and I haven't found a truly "bad" coil... yet. I've got a marginal coil that still ran when removed. I'm not saying it's not impossible that a coil can take a module down, but i haven't experienced it. The heat sink compounds are important to module, most come with a tube of the white stuff. I am aware of the wires coming apart on a vacuum advance distributor. My experience has been that if the advance mechanisms and pins are all worn out, I can replace the whole distributor with a new one and avoid the broken wires from the mag pickup. It's a wash on price anymore between refurbishing an old one or buying a new one. The best alternative to the OE module is the MSD module. This blue Monte got a new MSD module not long after for reliability sake.

[@thisisyourcaptainspeaking2259]

@@SnowFamilyRacing If the module is conducting too much current, it will overheat the driver transistor. Some coils such as "high energy" have a very low primary resistance.

[@pauljanssen7594]

Most Magnetic pickups can be tested with the ohm meter 0 ohm bad something k ohm good

[@eltonq]

Jesus. I keep replacing coils and modules ever since my original ignition module died on my 79 HEI Chevy. These parts are so terrible these days!

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Have you considered the MSD HEI Module? I used one in that same blue Monte Carlo and it hasn't been a problem since I swapped it in. Here's a link to the video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bqLEp4Obqr1qicU

[@LSX_GORILLA]

Brother thanks much

[@kenschreiner6465]

Is it a work or no work item not an intermittent issue

[@chrismay6302]

I just tripping out about the thermoquad Chrysler carburetor. Some people liked them?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

That's actually a Street Demon carb made by Demon. It's kinda thermoquad, kinda Edelbrock, kinda weird. It works well enough, and I haven't had to mess with the tune in ages. I set it and forgot it. At the time, the car needed a carb faster than I could piece together a Qjet from my stash. Deep down, I'm a Qjet guy.

[@chrismay6302]

Cool 😎 I will look into it.

[@donaldrice9319]

You can check magnetic pickup with volt meter 😮

[@marklarson5148]

Mine just went bad car stalling not starting

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

This is probably the most unreliable part in the car. Not hard to replace, but it's never convenient.

[@ws2664]

Are my eyes deceiving me or is that Mopar thermo quad carb?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

It's a little Road Demon Jr.. It wouldn't surprise me if it's similar to a thermoquad. I've not actually worked with an original thermoquad. I'm a Qjet guy, i didn't have one that was right for this engine when we put it together the first time. It's kinda like an Edelbrock, kinda not, and a pain to tune. Took forever to get the tune right. It almost went in the garbage, but it saved itself by doing what I wanted it to do at the last minute and has been pretty trouble-free ever since. Its saving grace is that it hasn't given me any trouble, and if it's not broken, it gets to keep mixing fuel. It does do really nice on the highway cruise. That's a plus.

[@heytonight1]

the heck kind of carb is that bossman

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Thats a Street Demon made by Demon. It's a funky, Edelbrock Qjet Thermoquad hybrid. It's not my favorite carb, but it does work well in this car. It works well at cruise.

[@nowayhunting]

be nice to see what you did at 0.40 of the video

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

You mean checking the voltage at the distributor? You can see the volt meter probe in the connector for power at the distributor.

[@LSX_GORILLA]

🇺🇸🦅

[@chrispy841]

I keep spares in the dash lol

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Seems like everyone does! It's sad that the current ones are especially failure prone.

[@jamesford2942]

Adapt a Ford Dura spark to it. Better yet just buy a Ford. LOL Ignition module on HEI is not a good design as it is inside the hot distributor as opposed to Ford and Dodge that mounts it away from the heat

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Why would I want to downgrade? I realize it's not the most serviceable, but wow!

[@Chuncy566]

Can a person mount the ign module outside of the distributor on the firewall or the fender & ground it realy well? Would that work?

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

@Chuncy566 you could, it's just wires. Will it work better, probably not.

[@ThDESTROYER-xd5jv]

i just bought one figuting out its bad

[@JohanOrdonez-wu9yh]

Fantastic video!!

[@SnowFamilyRacing]

Thank you very much!