Info needed on how to hook up a MSD / Thunderbolt IV
 

Does anyone know where or can explain how to hook up a MSD 6A to a Thunderbolt IV ignition. I went to MSD site but Im not for sure about which instructions to go by since none of instruction say anything about the spark advance module.

Re: Info needed on how to hook up a MSD / Thunderbolt IV
 

That's exactly what I want...specially if the MSD blows.

Thanks for that info :evilb:

Re: Info needed on how to hook up a MSD / Thunderbolt IV
 

I believe this is what you do.....this is going form memory so i hope sutphen30 can confirm.....

dissconect the wire on the coil....i dont remember exactly what they are but if you put some sort of quick connect on it would make hooking up the stock stuff easier later if need be. the gray wire from the ignition amplifier gets spliced to the white wire on the MSD system.
The red wire on the MSD gets spliced to the purple wire thats running to the ignition amplifier.
Obviously the magnetic pickup does not get used so you can leave that alone if you MSD has it.
The orange and black are the MSD coil wires and they get hooked to the coil.
And the HEAVY black and red wires get hooked to battery +/- and thats it. if the MSD ever craps out just unhook the quick connect harness of the MSD, and hook up the stock coil wires and your back in business... :D

Did i get it right Sutphen? :cool:

Re: Info needed on how to hook up a MSD / Thunderbolt IV
 

This is from MSD's web site for hooking up the 6M box to tbolt IV, is there a reason to use the 6A instead of the 6M?

Dave

Re: Info needed on how to hook up a MSD / Thunderbolt IV
 

It has been a few years since I installed my 6AL but If I remeber correctly I connects just as a points system would. I do not have my boat here to verify wire colors and connections on my set up. I remember calling the tech line and they said it installed like a points style set up....I believe. Give them a call. They were very helpful and I remember it to be about a 20 second phone call. It was that simple. Good luck!

Re: Info needed on how to hook up a MSD / Thunderbolt IV
 

The cost

Re: Info needed on how to hook up a MSD / Thunderbolt IV
 

Cost is right. The 6m uses a external rev limiter, and the module is filled with a hard plastic filler(I guess for moisture and vibration). I've run a 6al for 5 years now without any problems. And yes the wiring diagram you posted will work on the 6a, all the colors are the same between the two modules. The 6m comes with quick connect weather packed connectors, and is marine approved. You will need to hard wire the 6a, but all you need to bypass the 6a is to put the grey and purple wires back on the coil. I don't think there is any safety issues using the 6a/6al in marine service, but thats what your paying extra for, that marine certification.

Re: Info needed on how to hook up a MSD / Thunderbolt IV
 

The 6AN is the one we use all the time and the above diagram is correct for that too. It has the internal rev limiter with a plug in chip. The components are potted for vibration and moisture. They work just fine. If you want to make it just like the M all you have to do is replace the bottom cover with a aluminum plate and seal it with RTV.

The 6AN is for NASCAR use and has the sealed plug in connecters so it doesn't need to be hard wired. It is also a whole lot cheaper than the M.

Re: Info needed on how to hook up a MSD / Thunderbolt IV
 

All you guys are Great :drink: I really appreciate the quick responses. :D :D Thank You!

Dean