The suggestions below aim at optimizing the efficiency of the distributor-controlled ignitions whether the Electronic spark control unit is fitted or not.

Electronic Spark can be fitted on an engine without making any alterations by simply connecting four wires, but a few precautions are recommended.

Before installation, we recommend performing some checks:

Remove any rough edges from the contact breaker points by means of a file or sand paper; it is not necessary to fit new contact breaker points; clean thoroughly.

Open the contact breaker points at a value between 0.2 and 0.4 mm; the distance between the contacts assumes no critical value as current no longer passes through it.

Before fitting, it is very important to use a DC multimeter to check, with the engine off, keys inserted and contact breaker points closed, the difference in voltage between the positive pole of the battery and the positive terminal of the coil; this measurement is used to quantify how much energy is dispersed in the wires and contacts. If the measurement gives a value exceeding 1V, it is necessary (whether the Electronic Spark is fitted or not) to power the ignition device through a 20A relay directly from the battery with a 8A fuse.

The drop in voltage, caused by the loss of the system added to the overcharge of the battery at the moment of starting, can result in failed or difficult starts. It is not uncommon to notice in old cars that the engine starts at the moment of release of the key from the start position when the voltage on the battery climbs again and the engine turns by inertia.

Keep the ignition distributor cap clean from powder and only use silicone spray externally to protect it from moisture; dirt and moisture create current leakage at high voltage.

Check the condition of the spark plug cables, replace them if they have cracks, keep them clean, and regularly treat them with silicone spray. If possible use insulating spacers that keep the wires away from each other and from the engine earthing wire.

Check the condition of the rotating brush and the fixed contacts inside the ignition distributor; if the contacts are corroded, replace them. Check that the cap has no cracks; replace it if that is the case.

Check the clearance of the ignition distributor shaft, it must not compromise the opening of the contact breaker points; in any case the defect is minimized by adopting the Electronic Spark.