Could someone help me understand the difference between upgrading your points to an electronic ignition compared to installing a coil/ignition box

[tonyp25]

I guess just really don’t understand the difference or performance difference that is? Or in what scenarios you’d opt for one over the other? Other than it being simpler to only install the pertronix igniter rather than the whole kit

 

[dadsbee]

Can't fix any of that shat with a pocket knife on the side of the road...

 

[#41]

You don't need MSD for a street car. Set yourself up with Chrysler 70-80's electronic ignition conversion and carry a full spare dizzy, ballast, and brain box in the trunk. You can buy a complete conversion kit AND A BACKUP KIT for the trunk, plus a really nice bottle of whiskey for less than an MSD set up.

 

[PurpleBeeper]

That’s basically the same thing.
1. Points ignition was used up until 1971 or early 1972 and uses an ignition coil, but does not use an ignition box. Points are inside the distributor
2. Electronic ignition began in 1972 and also uses an ignition coil, but has a magnetic pickup inside the distributor (instead of points) and does need an ignition box.

Both systems work just fine, though most people prefer electronic ignition these days

 

[PurpleBeeper]

You don't need MSD for a street car. Set yourself up with Chrysler 70-80's electronic ignition conversion and carry a full spare dizzy, ballast, and brain box in the trunk. You can buy a complete conversion kit AND A BACKUP KIT for the trunk, plus a really nice bottle of whiskey for less than an MSD set up.

Agreed….and maybe just the ignition pickup and not the whole distributor.

 

[Unkle Krusty]

I like the idea of the E ignition. Put it in and forget it.

 

[NoCar2023]

Or....just keep the points.

 

[WileE]

Points system to an electronic system is basically converting a wearable part to non-wearable. Once you go to an electronic system, it's basically what method utilized among the various companies/systems.

 

[66 Sat]

I think the question the OP is asking is not:

Points vs Electronic

but more

"In distributor Electronic ignition" vs "external box Electronic ignition".

OP - please confirm