Greetings.

I suppose this thread should really go into some other section of these forums, but I guess I could get the most relevant answers here.

I have an -86 IROC with a nasty computerized Q-Jet that I wish to swap for this here Edelbrock Performer 1406 (together with heads & manifold).

I just learned that the distributor might not like this and that I should get a mechanical/vacuum-advanced unit instead. Unfortunately, my budget is blown this month and the only new distributors available are sold in a far away town here in Sweden. I have called around to all the car wreckers but american cars seem to be a rare find here - no luck.

Is there some way I can modify the present distributor? Or should I just contend with it working improperly until I get the cash to buy a new one?

What will happen, exactly? Will it default to some failsafe setting and work, albeit with less engine power or such? Or will it on the contrary default to some harmful setting?

Thankful for any help.

 

You'll have no advance and you'll foul the plugs out in no time.

Rather than put up with it until you can get a new distributor, just wait until you have all the parts you need before doing the swap.

 

Well if you were in north america this would be easy.

Is there anywhere in your area that you can get gm parts used for cheap. Any gm HEI distributer should work.

 

I see. I can of course keep the Quadrajet until next paycheck. =/

I do can get a proper distributor from a GM dealer in another town, I just hoped that there would be some way to bypass the need for computer control.

Thanks!

 

Uhmmm....any pre 1980 CHEVROLET big or small block distributor will work.

Look on e-bay, there are usually a dozen used vacuum advance small chevy distributors for sale. Just find a buyer that will ship internationally.


If it's an automatic transmission have you thought of how you will get the torque convertor to lock and unlock? I mean if your going without the ECM then you've got some other things that'll need attention too.

 

Actually, it is a manual.

I just spoke with the auto shop yesterday. They want $390 for an old-type distributor. Methinks I'll order one from Summit instead.

I suppose this will fit?
Summit Blueprinted HEI Distributors: SUM-850001R - summitracing.com

 

That'll work.

 

Great! Thanks!