I have a ’72 Stage 1 455 with a Crane Cam, Elderbroock Intake, 750 Holley, and MSD 6A Ignition box. Last time running it was idling in storage and shut-off on its own. Thinking it was out of gas, I added some and car would not restart. It’s now flooded and appears to not have any spark. I’ve tested ignition box according to MSD’s troubleshooting and it’s OK. Issue seems to be a distributor/points/condenser problem. No spark showing when using a bulb type spark tester on spark-plug wire. I figure it’s time to switch to a different distributor set up without points. Anyone with experience or recommendations? Should I fit a Pertronix ignitor? Another magnetic Pickup (trigger) kit? Look for a used HEI distributor? Thanks!!
I had an MSD and HEI in my 455. I was happy with it. But after too many random times the car would just shut off (It was so random I could never troubleshoot and pinpoint the exact issue) I Did away with the MSD and replaced every item in my ignitin system including the distributor. Now that Im building a new motor Im going to go with the Holly Hyperspark. It's a plug and play MSD and distributor.
I have no issues with my msd, I have used stk hei, and Mallory's. I have no complaints with any a d all will work with an msd box
So you tested the MSD box by removing the coil wire from the center of the distributor cap and positioned it near a ground, then disconnected the white wire and with the ignition switch in RUN, tapped the white wire to ground and there was a spark from the coil wire to ground? If so, the box is good. Next place to look is the center nub on the underside of the distributor cap. MSD's like to melt that center nub. Then I would look at the points and make sure they are opening and closing.
Then the problem is with the points. All they do is ground that white wire when they close. Check the connection wire from the distributor to the white wire. It may be broken internally or is just bad inside the distributor. That is assuming the box isn't bad when it heats up as B-rock suggested.
Thanks Larry. Pretty sure its not an MSD heat issue as it doesn't fire when cold either. I'm away from home for next few weeks. I figured I'd order parts (points etc) while gone so they'd be there waiting when I arrive. If I assume it is my points, Is it a good idea to replace them now with something else? An Igniter kit? Mag pickup? Should I look for a used HEI? Any opinions? I can't afford a full new distributor right now.
