Tech Corner: Good Things Come in Small Packages… So, Don’t Skimp on Ignition Upgrades

Tech Corner - IntermediateYou need two things to make an engine run: fuel and fire. Most engine mods are going to be targeted at things like improving flow, compression, and fuel delivery. In the quest for more power, however, don’t abandon ignition upgrades like an old tire alongside the road. Performance modifications to the ignition are critical for a powerful engine to remain powerful. They are also capable of improving drivability, fuel economy, and efficiency and can even free up or create additional horsepower.

Bump the Spark

A great place to start upgrading the ignition system on any vehicle is the controller of spark. For internal combustion engines, this is going to lead you right into the arms of the distributor. If you’re working with an old points style, then it’s worth swapping to an electronic ignition. Kits from companies like PerTronix make it possible to do so with the original distributor. Electronic ignitions make for better response and even help boost fuel economy when used in place of points-style distributors. They also are more durable and will require less maintenance. Side note: Of course, you can just pick up an aftermarket distributor for improved performance all around.

An HEI conversion should be in the back of your mind too, as it relocates the coil to the distributor and saves space in the engine bay. Originally, GM took exclusive advantage of this design, but nowadays HEI conversions are available for Fords and Mopars. On modern engines such as LS platforms and third-gen Hemis, the distributor may appear and function a bit differently. They can still be swapped out for aftermarket versions if you’re looking for a better option than what is stock.

Check the Coils

The source of the spark in the ignition system is the coil. And its job is an important one: to draw power from the battery and boost it for ignition. Whether working with coil packs or traditional canister-style coils, the advantage of an upgraded coil makes for a hotter spark. Intensifying the heat makes it easier to burn the fuel and air mixture, which translates to improved performance. You’ll likely be dealing with an HEI or canister-type coil with older engine, whereas late models have coil packs. Regardless of the type, rest assured companies like MSD or Accel will have product to cover your needs.

Ignition Boxes

These days, a lot of vehicles are build with ignition boxes. What’s all the hoopla surrounding this upgrade, you ask? When just running through the coil and distributor, only a single spark is used to ignite the air and fuel mixture. Ignition boxes take advantage of advanced technology to multiply the amount of sparks from one to three, thereby increasing power, response, and drivability. This only happens up to 3000 RPM in most cases, and anything over that does only use one spark for ignition, but it’s still intensified to ensure improved performance. You also can set a rev limiter with an ignition box. These units are designed to give users better control and improved performance of their vehicle. For a couple of hundred bucks and some minor wiring, it’s absolutely worth it.

Small Updates Complete the Package

Upgrading spark plugs and wires sounds laughable to most. Sure, it won’t exactly produce more horsepower. Though, the use of inappropriate equipment here will definitely hold the engine back in the terms of performance capabilities. When running a more powerful ignition, thicker wires are a must because they have to carry the heavier current to the spark plugs. Chances are that ignition upgrades aren’t the only thing you’re doing to the engine. You’ve probably spent some time upgrading the carb, intake and exhaust, maybe even the cylinder heads too. All of this means more air and fuel will be in the chamber and a hotter burn will be needed to ensure proper ignition. 

You see, it’s not a one-upgrade solution, rather an investment in a variety of components that, when combined, improve the entire experience on the open road. Make sure to stop back every Thursday, as we tackle another Tech Corner topic.

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