Petronix in Mallory Distributor

[91A-77B]

I have a front-mount points-style Mallory on my 59A. Can I use the Petronix conversion?

[TJ]

Why make the change? If something happens with the Pertronix I doubt you can get a replacement at any auto store if you are on a trip. Much easier to carry a spare distributor if you have a problem.

[mfirth]

Also, you must use their specific coil for your application or you'll have trouble. I know of more than one person who went back to a points system.

[tubman]

6 volt Pertronix units seem to be more trouble-prone than the 12 volt units. Also, the "noisy" power produced by generators can cause problems.

A points system usually will deteriorate over time, giving you a warning in time to "limp" home. Electronics have a nasty habit of failing immediately and completely, increasing the chance of leaving you stranded.

[Fritz]

Let me speak from personal experience. I have a 6v positive ground Pertronix in a crab distributor with a generator. It’s been flawless for over 10 years. It is true you need to use the coil Pertronix recommends and install the module exactly as they instruct.

[91A-77B]

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I learned a lot from your comments, guys. Including how to spell Pertronix. I'm running a B&M blower on a 284 cu in 59A, and thought I'd adapt my points-type Mallory to electronic. Sounds like I'd better stay with what I've got, unless other Barners have additional ideas. Thanks for your input.

[91A-77B]

Is there a source for points/rotor/cap/springs for my Mallory 3-bolt #2571601?

[tubman]

I usually deal with the 8BA and other later model Mallory distributors, but have found direct replacement points for some of them made by other manufacturers (Echlin, Standard, etc.). I'll bet they cross to the earlier units as well. Post the Mallory part numbers you need and I'll check and see if any match. I believe the crab caps are still available. I do not know about rotors and springs, but would be willing to bet they are also used in other applications as well; it would have made no sense for Mallory to tool up their own special small parts. I have also been able to get spares on eBay. Just keep watching; it's not so much if the parts are available, it's getting them at a decent price.

[Fritz]

Sorry, I’m not familiar with the Mallory units, but if you search on these Fordbarn forums, there was a member named “Bubba” Jim Linder who wrote a lot of these ignitions, including his advice to install Pertronix modules in them. He wasn’t afraid of electronic ignitions.

[glennpm]

I have had the Pertronix I and II on my 59AB Mallory crab distributor. The Pertronix I failed outright stranding me. I was unable to verify this with the seller but found a text online. These are attached.

The Pertronix II didn't work the best and after getting stranded with the I, I changed back to points. When I did this I found that the supposed rebuilt unit from the same seller, wasn't. When I took the modified plate with the Pertronix II off, I found oily sand in the body and the damper leather was completely worn out resulting in metal on metal contact. So much for being rebuilt :-( The Pertronix II passed the attached test for my 12V negative ground system.







I'll probably sell this.