Replacement Distributor ... now I'm confused

[Hedgehog]

My new 360 is from a '82 Wagoneer with a motorcraft distributor. The '75 didn't have a module controlling it. I want to change the distributor to one that doesn't need the ford module and better performance wouldn't hurt either.

Now for the confusion. At first I was all about an HEI ignition while being aware that AMC engines hate the bottom gear on the less expensive distributors. But, the D.U.I. distributor has somehow gotten around the gear problem. Yeah I'm all for the DUI. But then I find that the DUI isn't just expensive and that the DUI has GM guts and there are problems with the GM module. ????????

Now I'm reading about the Team Rush MSD change over. Lots of smiles all around but after pricing all the parts needed I find the price is about the same as the easy more compact DUI. Remember I need the MSD module, so I cant really go at this half handed.

This subject has been beaten to death, that's probably the main problem here. Any advice would be appreciated.

Michael

 

[Torxhead]

I have not heard of any issues with the GM module, they all go bad in time. If you have either the Motorcraft or the DUI it is always a good plan to carry a spare module when going out in the bush, the GM one takes up a little less room. A lot depends on the quality of the module to begin with, as in how much it cost. Who does the wiring on them is another factor.

 

[Hedgehog]

Alright, there appears to be differences in the quality of GM modules. Which type or brand should I be looking for? Also, this is not a challenge it's a question meant to be taken on face value alone. if the modules go bad why haven't I had a single one go bad on me, even when keeping vehicles for 200,000 miles? My Bronco certainly was a nightmare for most things mechanical and it was my hunting vehicle so it saw extensive off road usage, but the module never skipped a beat.

So, are your recommending the D.U.I. distributor?

 

[Torxhead]

For automotive electrical componets, I like to go with the Echlin brand available at NAPA. The DUI of course, has an excellent track record, the only experience I have had is with the similar GM HEI which I thought was great also. On my CJ I have the Motorcraft which seems to be fine, but have had a few issues over the past 25 years of owning it.

 

[Hedgehog]

Since I'd like to hear the new engine run this weekend I think I'll make the jump for a standard DUI, can't say as I'll EVER be racing my Jeep. High RPM running is NOT in it's future.


It's done, on the way. Man I hope this isn't a mistake..............

By-the-way, does the DUI dist. take special wires?

Spark plugs - I was a big fan of split fire spark plugs on my H-D Shovelhead, do they make them for AMC engines?

 

[Torxhead]

The hei type distributor does not take any special ignition wire. I am using MSD wires, they are probably the best, which cost the most. From my experience and from what I get over the net, Autolites seem to work best.

 

[Hedgehog]

The DUI dist. arrived today. Nice looking unit, I did not get the ever popular red cap, black works just fine. The engine hasn't been installed yet, so I wasn't installed. The 360 should find it's new home in the next couple days.