HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

I am replacing my TB IV with a HEI dist with the Vacuum adv removed and wondered how much the mechanical advance gives on a stock Distributor.My vortec heads only need 29 deg total and I'm running a little more compression and cam than stock so was hoping for 12 or so initial with 29-30 total.

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

I think HEI has 24 degrees built in.

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

HEI's not explosion proof.

Be sure to wear Nomex when you drive it.

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

If it's not a marine distributor, DON'T RUN IT!!!

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

Why are you replacing the excellent Thunderbolt ignition? :confused:

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

Thunderbolt is a good dependable ignition system. Definetly dont put a car distributor in your boat for obvious reasons.

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

Do Not Put An Automotive Dist. In Your Boat!!! Call Teague Custom Marine Get The Msd Dist., Hei Box And Coil. Use The Two Light Blue Springs W/ The Black Advance Bushing And 12 Degrees Initial For A 34 Total Advance.

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

Be sure and get the marine version upgraded HEI if you are going to run one.

I have had good luck with DUI in Memphis www.performancedistributors.com

Just my .02

OR

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

My understanding of a Marine approve HEI dist is that the distributor base has screens to prevent sparks from jumping out. DUI is the way to go, I think all of their distis have the screen in the base.

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

Why can't I put a screen on my HEI? I'm sure they don't cast their own caps. Guess I've been lucky in the past, I've ran for yrs with Reg HEI,carbs,(starters too most likely,(how can you differntiate on the starters?)). Thanks for all the input, I do have a little more fear now as I grow up ;).I'll screen it or resell it.Anyone willing to sell me an hp 20 deg module?

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

It really doesn't matter unless you want to sell the boat, or something goes boom. In that case insurance may not pay, you may get sued, etc.
IMHO, not worth the risk.

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

BTW, the vent screen have been tested/approvrd by coast guard. Same with starter, alternator. Same with fuel pump, carb, flame arrestor, tested & approved.
Oh, and good luck selling it. Anyone familiar with boats or a surveyor will pick those problems up right away.
Gary

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

I am aware of this and that some things safer than USCG approved are not condoned such as braided stainless in place of rubber USCG fuel line.

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

Why do you want to switch to the HEI, I have always been told the Thunderbolt is a better ignition? Just trying to learn.

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

Thunderbolt is not better but you also will not notice any performance gains from switching to HEI. When my Thunderbolt gave out, I switched to HEI because of the convenience

Re: HEI Distributor mech.advance,How much???
 

Hei has hotter spark and like jhnrckr says more available.