Hi all. I tried to do a search for MSD 6AL but the forum didn't allow me so my apologies if this is a redundant thread. Feel free to point me in the right direction if so. I have an MSD 6AL that's been in my car for 20+ years I would guess (was installed when I bought the car) and I need to upgrade other aspects of the ignition system due to wear and neglect so I thought I replace all (or as much as possible) of it while I'm at it. My car has a N/A 455, modified with headers and a slightly more aggressive cam (also installed when I got the car). I have no plans to add boost. I've been looking at the programmable 6AL-2 but I'm not sure how much use I'll get out of it being programmable. Perhaps the 6AL-2 is enough for my application? Or something else entirely? I have had zero problems with my MSD so I'm partial to them but open for suggestions. I also want to replace the distributor and the ignition coil but I'm not really sure what my options are. Do I have to use MSD parts if I go with an MSD ignition box, or can I mix and match? Finally, I need to replace my ignition wires and even if I might not need the absolute high-end stuff, I don't want to cheap out on them either, so any tips are more than welcome. Thanks!
I like the 6520 box. Its not programmable, but does have start retard if you lock out your timing. Has inputs for 2 step for burn out or trans brake rpm limit......could be used either way. Also has 12 volt timing retard for nitrous or use as top end timing retard
I use the 6520 as well, it is the Digital 6+ ignition. It has a select able 20* crank retard, 2 rev limiters, and a high speed retard feature. I use all of those features, and the unit has been very reliable for 15 plus years. The only glitch I had was an Accel Coil that burned out on me. I replaced it with a chrome blaster coil (Made in the USA) and haven't had a problem since. https://www.holley.com/products/ignition/ignition_boxes/street_and_strip/parts/6520 I installed mine in the cowl, Having said that, I am not sure if MSD's quality has slipped in past years. I don't think I would look to replace the box if I was you. I think you may be better off just replacing your distributor and wires. TA Performance has a line of MSD Pro Billet look alikes that would plug right into your current box. The distributor offers a fully adjustable mechanical advance, and a vacuum advance as well. http://taperformance.com/proddetail.asp?prod=TA_725BP As far as ignition wires, I like the MSD Super Conductor Wire. I like the black with gray boots. Get the universal set and make the wires the perfect length. https://www.holley.com/products/ignition/spark_plug_wires/msd_spark_plug_wires/
Thanks for the replies! I might just keep the box then if there's nothing to gain from replacing (I have other things to put that money towards) and instead go for the distributor and wires. Any thoughts on the coil? I'm not sure what I have now but I would wager a guess that it's an MSD product.
If you are just looking for personal opinions, just tune it up an leave the overkill you already have. Plugs, wires, cap and rotor. You combo sounds alotlike the 496 in my 71 Monte. Mild. no nitrous, no power adder at all, and not a bracket car. I chased a miss on the 12.0 Monte and tore out the entire MSD 7AL2, the Blaster 2 coil, the retard box and the car broke up. I slapped a GMPP HEI in it. Same miss at WOT. The issue turned out to be a very weak valve spring. Point? Kept the HEI , Put a new set of springs in it and it does what it does. 12.0 @ 114, just like it did in 2006 when I built the engine. My 1-2 shift is 5400 rpm. MSD looks cool, but unless you have a high rpm engine, or you are boosted, it might just be overkill.
