The car is a 1984 bird with a 305. The igniton module keeps dying after maybe two weeks after i put it in. I've change it about 4 times and i change the distrubutor. Is there anything else that will cause this problem? I've talked to a few people and they say that some type of computer controls it and that may have gone bad. Can i replace this computer? is there anything else that would cause this? I've just change it again and it doesn't like it gonna start this time. anything else i can do? Thanks

 

Try a new coil. The coil and module often take each other out.

 

Yep, and use factory parts, check the stator while you're at it, sometimes the wires fray. Also don't forget to use the dialectic(spl?) stuff on the parts.

 

Anything else i should check? would old grease make it not start at all?

 

The grease is just there to enhance the transfer of heat out of the module. Not having it would shorten the module life, but it wouldn't keep it from starting.

 

Modules are one of those components where it is CRITICAL to buy a QUALITY name brand part. There are lots of el-cheapo third party modules from Taiwan kicking around which don't have all the electronic innards that a Delco or Blue Streak module does.

They cost less initially but nail you over and over again when they croak unexpectedly.

A good module will literally last for years on end.

The crappy ones you are now an expert with

 

I'm not sure why the recommendation on using factory parts (GM factory, I presume). They have about a 4500 RPM limit, and are known to fail.

I've been running an Accel supercoil for 5 years, and Accel 7-pin module for 3. Never a problem.

If by something other than factory you mean Neihoff or other chain-store brands, then perhaps you have a point. But, Delco's aren't exactly "performance parts", either.

The stator or pick-up coil is another piece that can fail, as mentioned.

The modules I've purchased had a little packet of the grease with it. I don't believe it is the standard "dielectric" grease, though.

 

Maybe better wording would have been a "quality component", bit I've never had a stocker fail either.

 

well i'm trying to find out WHY its failing? If i go out and buy a 30$ part and it still dies what do i do?

 

You may not have yet replaced the component that is really failing.

The pickup coil can fail intermittently. It is less expensive than the coil or module, try it next. Since it can be intermittent, it is a little difficult to diagnos/test. And, it won't set an error code in the ECM, most likely.

If that doesn't change anything, then go for another module and coil. My preference is when either the coil or module fails, replace them both. For the reason I stated up front.

 

$30 ain't much for a module in these parts. What brand are you buying?

 

I care less about ultra-high performance and more about reliability, personally. I use a Proform module and it keeps up with my 305 quite nicely, thank you very much. Nothing wrong with Accel either. And Delco ain't likely to leave you in the lurch, now is it?

The really bad ones around here are the Canadian Tire house brand modules. I spent a lot of money on those pieces of junk before getting a Blue Streak and never having the module go again

 

This is probably a dumb question but would the yellow wire being cut on the coil make the car not start? If i get another coil is there anything i should also replace? Thanks

 

Yes.

 

So who makes the Blue Streak, where do I get one, and how much do they run?

So what about a AC-Delco cutting out at 4500? I never experienced that...

I had Jeg's brand and it went out in >3 months quite abruptly and left me stranded. I then went right back to AC-Delco and haven't had trouble since. I guess Jegs brand is just crap.. but what about others?

How about MSD? Anyone have the MSD edition? Any problems or praise with those?

I've heard a few people talk about the Accel ones and everyone seems to like them, maybe I should get one of those...

I will always carry an extra with me now and the tools to swap it out, I won't be stuck because of an ignition module ever again.