I've been thinking about putting an MSD 6AL system on my Camaro, but I'm a little confused as to what I'd need. I understand that the MSD box has the ability to replace the function of the ignition module (located in the distributor)... but does it do this automatically or do I need to buy an adapter of some sort? Would there be any purpose in buying a high-performance ignition module to use with an MSD box, or can I just keep my stock module?

 

It only replaces the module in 4 pin vac advance HEI distributors , if the car in your sig is the one you are talking about you cant replace it .

 

Right. MSD makes a module for the vacuum advance HEI distributors, but Pertronix makes a supposedly higher-output ignition module that looks more like my stocker (I'm not sure if it'll work, though). Is that worthwhile?

 

If you are running a 4 pin HEI and have an MSD box then ditch the module and run the purple and green wires right the the pick up , they only connect one way.


Here the instructions:

http://msdignition.com/pdf/pdf13.pdf

 

Yeah, I made that mistake too. bought a accel 4 pin module only to have to yank it out when installing the msd 6al.

 

I made the mistake of posting the wrong aftermarket ignition module. I didn't actually look at my stocker until today, and I learned that it's got 7 pins. Say, then, that I buy an Accel or Jegs aftermarket 7-pin ignition module. Would there be any benefit in that scenario if I were using an MSD 6 Series box in conjunction?

Sorry for the confusion.

 

If you are going to use an MSD then only use a stock replacement module because it doesnt work with most aftermarket modules. Trust me ,I know this for a fact.

As for it being a benefit , it depends on who you talk to. I noticed a difference , but some people say that they didnt .

 

Holley also makes a replacement ignition module for our remote coil'd HEI's. It's part #891-103, Summit Racing's part # is HLY-891-103. Here's a pic:



Go to holley.com , click on annihilator, click on annihilator on the next page, then click on accessories, and look for 891-103.

I noticed no difference when I installed an MSD 6AL and Blaster SS coil. It acted the same as before the install, when I had "just" an Accel Supercoil. Well; actually; that's not entirely true; it seems to take an extra 1/2 second to start the engine.

 

TomP, my HEI setup has a coil that is internal to the distributor cap. After checking their website, Holley makes a module for my version, which is part number 891-102. For only $15 more than an AC Delco replacement, I can have the Holley. Even if I couldn't tell a difference with the Holley, it'd still be good to know that I'm running higher-performance ignition components -- if I just used the OEM module, I may encounter a bottleneck in the future and not know what it is. I could pretty much rule that out by going with the Holley (assuming that it isn't as flaky as other aftermarket modules).

I actually have a brand new MSD 6AL sitting in its box for my other car project. This summer I'll put it on my Camaro temporarily and see if there are any differences in my drag times.