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Old 05-17-2021, 12:45 PM   #1
rottenron36
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Default crab pertronix 59ab

I have gone thru many post about crab distributors and pertronix. I have a crab with the correct 1285lsp6 pertronix, and the 1.5 coil and would like to try it on my 59ab. I'm still confused about a resistor. Some on the barn say you need one, pertronix says you don't need one. Whether I use it or not, I don't want to burn it up. Any tips or information appreciated. Ron
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Old 05-17-2021, 01:21 PM   #2
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Default Re: crab pertronix 59ab

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Originally Posted by rottenron36 View Post
I have gone thru many post about crab distributors and pertronix. I have a crab with the correct 1285lsp6 pertronix, and the 1.5 coil and would like to try it on my 59ab. I'm still confused about a resistor. Some on the barn say you need one, pertronix says you don't need one. Whether I use it or not, I don't want to burn it up. Any tips or information appreciated. Ron
Are you 12v or 6v for starters. Consensus is that the 12v system is better than 6v system. Personally I'm with the old stlye points set up which when serviced correctly are great.
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Old 05-17-2021, 01:26 PM   #3
rottenron36
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Default Re: crab pertronix 59ab

6 volt positive ground, 59ab, with voltage regulator, and resister
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Old 05-17-2021, 03:43 PM   #4
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Default Re: crab pertronix 59ab

Do not use the resistor. I’ve been using your exact setup for the last 8 years. 59a engine, crab, 6v positive ground Pertronix unit. The pertronix needs the full 6v to the distributor. I bypassed the resistor, and the unit runs perfectly.
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Old 05-17-2021, 06:41 PM   #5
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Default Re: crab pertronix 59ab

Do as Fritz wrote eliminate the resister. You will enjoy how nice the system works. Here's a tip on the installation. The Pertronix conversion comes with a new base plate the module is mounted on this new plate. Check to be sure your rotor is not bottomed out on the new bronze bushing at the top of the base plate. Sometimes the bushing needs to be pushed down just a touch so there's proper clearance between the bottom of the rotor and the top of the bushing. The clearance will allow the advance to operate correctly.
The benefits of the Pertronix no more points to adjust or worry about especially the crappy import replacements another bonus is no worry's about the condenser crapping out as well.
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Old 05-18-2021, 07:37 AM   #6
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Default Re: crab pertronix 59ab

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you will also need resistor type plug wires not solid core ,6v not good with pertronix , i run points in my 59ab with points no problem
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Old 05-18-2021, 09:00 AM   #7
rottenron36
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Default Re: crab pertronix 59ab

My plug wires are a bunch of strands not solid core, are they compatible? Thanks to all for your advice, tips and information. Ron
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Old 05-18-2021, 10:05 AM   #8
51 MERC-CT
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Default Re: crab pertronix 59ab

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My plug wires are a bunch of strands not solid core, are they compatible? Thanks to all for your advice, tips and information. Ron
Suggest you look into '7mm spiral wound plug wire'
This is what Pertronix recommends to eliminate interference to the electronics. One end comes installed and the wire has to be cut to fit,(as necessary) then remaining end installed.

Universal sets are available from Pertronix as well as other vendors.
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Old 05-18-2021, 10:11 AM   #9
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Default Re: crab pertronix 59ab

If your conductor strands are copper, they are not resistor wires. Pertronix recommends spiral wound resistor wires. I've read some have used copper conductor plug wires, but I wouldn't risk it.
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Old 05-18-2021, 11:02 AM   #10
rottenron36
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Default Re: crab pertronix 59ab

My plug wires appear to be steel strands not copper. They are almost new, and were a pain to get through conduits, but I don't want to burn my unit up. Ron
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Old 05-18-2021, 11:33 AM   #11
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Default Re: crab pertronix 59ab

It'd probably be easier to just replace the distributor with a good stock unit; then you could leave the plug wires where they are.

Plus, you won't have to worry about being stuck in some inconvenient place if that 6 volt Pertronix suddenly decides to quit on you.
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Old 05-18-2021, 06:11 PM   #12
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Default Re: crab pertronix 59ab

Just replace the coil wire with a length of spiral wound, and keep those spark plug wires, whatever they are. That will provide enough resistance to keep the Pertronix happy. In case I have that wrong, carry a spare points distributor with you at all times.
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