MSD Ignition

[Zrush]

Just wanted to know if anyone out there has installed a MSD system to their Z? I have a 77 280 with some engine mods done. Here they are. 40 overbore with flat top pistons.Schnieder 460 cam, ported , polished and refprofiled head. I also installed a rising rate fuel regulator.The engine runs fine but I am not completely burning all the fuel,car runs very rich and I mean rich. Would something on the line of a MSD system correct this problem? If so what would one recommend and how hard would this mod be?

[2ManyZs]

Couple things to try before you spend the money on an MSD, which could end up being a waste of money...

Have you tried a hotter heat range plug? And what are you running for plugs and plug gap.

Have you confirmed that the timing is set correctly and the advance is working properly?

Have you tried advancing the timing a degree or two?

Are you running a stock coil or aftermarket?

Aftermarket plug wires?

MSD's are fine, but you will have to remember to get the tach adapter, or you will not be able to fire the injectors. I believe the 280's will need the magnetic trigger adapter, which I think is the more expensive of the two.....

And, an MSD won't cure a problem with the ignition or fuel supply you may be overlooking. Be sure to check everything, it's possible it is a small problem with the AFM, or the ignition itself...it could also be a malfunctioning water temp/air temp sensor and/or cold start valve as well.

You really ought to diagnose any possible problems with the FI system as well as the ignition before you spend any money, you may need to spend the money on something else besides an MSD to cure the problem.

[Zrush]

Thankz 2ManyZ's, Maybe somemore info is needed to determine the problem. Just to let you know I have not had the car dyno tuned because I don't have enough miles on the engine.Anyways this is my set up: Mallory Unilite Distributer,Crane PS40 Fireball coil, MSD 8.5mm plug wires on NGK plugs gapped at .035. Timing seems to be OK but the car seems to load up when at idle. Maybe I need to step on it real good from time to time to blow out the carbon. What do you think:cross-eye :cross-eye

[2ManyZs]

Well, with what you have now, I don't really see a need for an MSD....

First off, which plugs are you running?

If you are running BPR7's, you ought to go one heat range hotter to a BPR6ES and open up the gap to .040 and see how they look after running it a while.

[Zrush]

Hey 2ManyZ's, I am running NGK model # BR6ES plugs. Will try a larger gap. Thankz for the info. You wouldn't know of any shop with a chassis dyno who would also know how to dial it all in? I realize that you don't live in Florida but thought you might have some good contacts. I really need someone who knows about Z cars. Thankz again for your help.:classic:

[seerex]

by chance where are you in fla? I know a couple in the central florida area , zotz in winter park is very good with carbs webbers and su's and webs z world on central , I also know another mechanic that specializes in there but not sure what show he is at right now , good luck Jeff:geek:

[Zrush]

Thankz for the info Jeff. I am located in the Tampa bay area and need someone who know fuel injection also. Where are you in tha Sunshine State?

[seerex]

Orlando area here , I have a friend I will ask if he know someone in the Tampa area , he might know someone personally, unles its the carbs I just hate to take it to anyone , I find with z cars they seem to do more damage than fixing Jeff:geek:

[240Zdragon72]

Ft. Walton Beach, Baby! I know a guy who helps me a lot. His name is Mike. Would you like his number/ fax?