77 dizzy with E12-80 module

[CrossroadsZ]

I was wondering if it is possible to use a E12-80 Ignition module on a 77 dizzy? I think I saw somewhere that it is possible, but I don't know how to wire it correctly. If someone knows for sure could they please explain how it wires up. Thanks

[sblake01]

I'd imagine that you would connect the red and green wires from the 77 dist. to the terminals on the module in the same relation as the red and green wires were connected from the ZX dist. For the external 'c' and 'b' terminals on the E12-80 module you'd wire them the same way you'd wire an E12-80 dist. in a non E12-80 car. How would you mount the module? Does it actually work? Don't know, I've never seen it done. Might be easier to use the far more plentiful and much less expensive GM HEI module. I have seen that done.

[jmortensen]

I'd imagine that you would connect the red and green wires from the 77 dist. to the terminals on the module in the same relation as the red and green wires were connected from the ZX dist. For the external 'c' and 'b' terminals on the E12-80 module you'd wire them the same way you'd wire an E12-80 dist. in a non E12-80 car. How would you mount the module? Does it actually work? Don't know, I've never seen it done. Might be easier to use the far more plentiful and much less expensive GM HEI module. I have seen that done.

It will work, but as Stephen says, where are you going to mount the module? The HEI works as well, so does a Chrysler module. If you're going other than stock, I'd go American, so that if you have a module go out you can go get one at any local auto parts store for $20.

As to the wiring, you'll have to figure out that part yourself or maybe someone else can help out. Electricity and I have a longstanding feud. I can tell you that I know it will work, and I've seen cars running the GM and Chrysler modules in person.

[sblake01]

Here's a write up on using the GM HEI module with a Datsun distributor. It's for a 620 pickup but the installation should be the same for a 280Z distributor.

http://www.japanesenostalgiccar.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=184

[peterc]

Sorry to resurrect an old post, but I can't seem to find any relevant info. In order to solve/eliminate an electrical problem I'd like to replace the ignition module in my '83 with the "standard GM four-pin HEI module" as described in this as well as other write-ups. Problem is, nobody identifies the part number making it difficult to source here in the great white north. My local auto parts suppliers say the part number is D1906, or GM OEM number 19180771.

However, that part runs $CDN 110.00. Thats a far cry from the "about $20.00" indicated in all the write-ups. Do I have the wrong part number, have the prices skyrocketed, or is the exchange rate now 550%?

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Peter

[sblake01]

Try these:

Niehoff Part Number DR400, BWD Part Number CBE4, or Standard Motor Products LX301.

[TomoHawk]

Would it be possible to swap that into the L28E engine, replacing the OE module? It might be good to have a better sytem with the cheaper parts.

thxZ

[sblake01]

Well, yeah, that's basically what the discussion was/is about. The orignal setup on Mark's 620 (the guy on the other site) is very similar to the 280Z setup. When you say 'cheaper parts', that's only part of the story. The stock module on a 78 is virtually impossible to find these days and quite expensive if you do find one. Though I no longer own my 280Z, I had always planned to do the GM HEI module swap on it if the original module ever went out. I had even discussed it with Mark and would have called on him for assistance if I needed it.

Edited August 25, 2009 by sblake01

[TomoHawk]

I think the best part of the swap would be the 'shortening' of about 6 feet from the wiring between the distributor to the ignition module inside the car, and all those old connectors.

[TomoHawk]

Is this of any help: http://atlanticz.ca/zclub/techtips/distributor/index.html

It's for the ZX distributor swap with the E12-80 ignition "matchbox" circuit integrated.

[sblake01]

That's swapping the 280Z dist & module for the 280ZX dist and module as opposed to swapping the 280Z module for the GM module.

[TomoHawk]

The wiring was the important thing. The OE ignition module was not needed after the swap, which is the goal. The odd thing is the the author keeps referring to the ballast resistor.

The first graphic is the OE setup, and the second is after the swap.

Edited August 30, 2009 by TomoHawk