Why do MSD ignition boxes go bad?
02-09-2018, 06:28 AM
#31
Registered
They are hit and miss for sure. I'm not a big MSD fan from my experience. I have been using a Crane box for 20-25 years and never had an issue. There were pictures of a 6A box with the back removed on the internet. It was absolutely the worst as far as build quality. It looked like a 1st grader put it together with no direction. There were just wires shoved all over that were way to long. I tried to find the pictures to post but couldn't find them. I'm going to keep looking. To carry spares with you so you don't get stuck says it all.
I do have friends running the digital boxes with better success.
I do have friends running the digital boxes with better success.
02-09-2018, 09:40 AM
#32
I liked the Jacobs stuff the best but there long gone. MSD issues have mounted them on rubber mounts on anything they were installed on. wiring improperly, fake boxes and not using shielded wire to the coil most issue have run into. Have had lots of issues with their dizzs and moisture issues i always carry spare caps. Called them on that they said i live in a high humidity area as the cause. Said you should start testing them in Oregon.
02-09-2018, 10:11 AM
#34
Registered
iTrader: (7)
What's the deal with all NASCAR using them with switchable spares all about. MSD make some heavy donations fo NASCAR or what? I know I wouldn't be racing with them. Not a chance even if they were personally greasing my pockets. Been a lot on jabber on the net about them being imported from China. Not sure how true that tha is. So much is nowadays where it wouldn't necessarily bother me if they didn't fail. But dammmmm.
02-09-2018, 11:48 AM
#35
Registered
What's the deal with all NASCAR using them with switchable spares all about. MSD make some heavy donations fo NASCAR or what? I know I wouldn't be racing with them. Not a chance even if they were personally greasing my pockets. Been a lot on jabber on the net about them being imported from China. Not sure how true that tha is. So much is nowadays where it wouldn't necessarily bother me if they didn't fail. But dammmmm.
02-09-2018, 09:12 PM
#37
Charter Member#568
Charter Member
I couldn't imagine running any ignition box without the rubber mounts however I've had two msd in my muscle cars for years and no issues however they are older 15-20 years old now. Not sure if it's where it was manufactured or if boats just don't like them. Lol... think it's hit and miss honestly. Most people I know that have run them in boats over the last 5-8 years or so keep a spare in the cabin. Personally I'm purchasing Daytonas as I've yet to hear of one failing and have the features that I like. If I'm not mistaking Daytona adopted the old crane boxes which for the most part everyone really liked. With SC engines especially the ability to fine tune/map your own advance at different rpm's is a must. Not just lock out at your weights at your typical 28-32 and call it good. Goes way beyond that but not without extensive testing and tuning.
So in a nutshell I can't say msd has treated me bad over the years on the street however would I purchase for new sc marine builds? No.... Heard to many horror stories and like what Datona has to offer at a good price.
So in a nutshell I can't say msd has treated me bad over the years on the street however would I purchase for new sc marine builds? No.... Heard to many horror stories and like what Datona has to offer at a good price.
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Straight bottoms and flat decks
Straight bottoms and flat decks
02-09-2018, 09:17 PM
#38
Charter Member#568
Charter Member
02-10-2018, 05:29 AM
#40
Platinum Member
Platinum Member
So I am most likely going to run the msd ignition on my new motors for just one year. I assume the reason why they are so u reliable in the marine world is the vibration when they are mounted right to the engine. I was thinking about using the rubber mounts and then making a bracket and mounting it to the boat under the gunnell. Thought? Comments?
