I have an 87 IROCZ 5.7TPI, I have to replace my distributor and want to know what the diff. was between HEI and Non-HEI? I know my coil is mounted off to the left with a coil wire going into the cap. What would be the best distributor to get with a highly modified car? Any help on this would be great, I can give more specifics on the mods if needed.

 

There hasn't been a non-HEI distributor in a GM car since 1974.

 

an aftermarket hei relacement is fine till you get into NOS and or high revs. the hei starts to break down at high revs and its good to have the adjustablity of a ign box w/NOS. so if you want to go that route i would suggest an MSD box, high output coil, and a billit alum. relacement distributer.


i just noticed you have tpi, i dont know how these things will work with fuel injection

 

But for the purpose of searching for and purchasing ignition products for our cars today, separate coil modules are designated HEI, and coils in the distributor cap are non-HEI.

So to answer your question, for purchasing aftermarket caps, wires, etc., yours is HEI. If you're looking for plug wires, you might have to look for products for 88+ models. For replacement distributor caps and coils, MSD and Hypertech make them, probably other companies too.

 

Appreciate the help fellas, I am gonna go with the MSD set up, I am understanding the HEI setup now, just want to make sure before I spend all my money that I am getting the right stuff. I put a new Cap and Rotor and coil on a few years back, but with oil in my distributor, it is time for an upgrade

Thanks.