Aq125a electric ignition?

[Eddie Ray]

1985 trophy. Aq125a 270OD
I think I am going to install the electric ignition conversion. Any comments? Has anyone done this with good and or bad results?
I understand leaving the key on can burn up unit. But I've been told that can happen with points too? Just seems like it would be easier to set time and tune with the conversion?
Thanks for any input.
Eddie

 

[dennis461]

Re: Aq125a electric ignition?

Why?

If you know how to replace and adjust points, I don't see a real advantage (I'm an old school motor head).
Points cost about two dollars and should last at least two years.

Your electronic ignition will still rely on the mechanical advance mechanisim.

Now if there was an inexpensive entirely electronic replacement, like crank position sensor and coil pack, then it might be worth the effort.

One mans opinion; if you boat is running OK, don't change it.

 

[HorizonblueDK]

Re: Aq125a electric ignition?

I would say: go for it!

Have changed ignition from points/condenser into electronic, where the advance mechanism is kept original. Both cars and boats. Have done it on a twin OMC 165 setup(straight 6). Before, the engines didn't like to idle under 900 rpm. After, they can idle as low as 500 rpm.

Also did it on a Porsche 924 (year 1976), that didn't like to idle. After the change into electronic ignition, the engine idles nice and steady.

In both cases, the engines were afterwards a lot easier to start, cold.

Off course, the old points were worn, and a regular tune up would also help. But I believe that points/condensor is a pre-historic system. The points must carry a substantial amount of power, and will therefore wear over time and weaken the spark. With electronic ignition you set the timing once, and it runs forever, keeping the same timing and powerfull spark.

I'm restoring a Volvo Penta AQ 170 (straight 6 B30) for a 17 footer, and I have ordered an electronic ignition kit

 

[Eddie Ray]

Re: Aq125a electric ignition?

Thanks HBDK. I have the kit,just can't decide to put it in or not? Just tuned it,and running good. But think the hotter spark will be even better. And won't have to mess with it so much?
Thanks
Eddie

 

[no704]

Re: Aq125a electric ignition?

I would say go for it! I have used the pertronics system in my 73 VW and 68 'vette and woundn't goback to points.

just keep a set of points onboard if it fails.

 

[HorizonblueDK]

Re: Aq125a electric ignition?

Remember to use a coil that has the correct resistance. I have used Hot-spark kits until now, they also have some nice high voltage coils, that matches the kit for the distributor. If you use a coil with a wrong resistance, the electronic kit wil burn up.

When you do the conversion, a new coil is a must, I think. I have done it every time.

Adjusting the electronic kit is quite easy. You don't have to worry about dwell anymore, only timing. And when that is done, you don't have to do anything about it again.

But as no704 says, keep the points on board, in case of a fail.

 

[PiratePast40]

Re: Aq125a electric ignition?

Remember that the kits aren't considered a performance enhancement and they won't solve existing problems. If you've just replaced your points and condensor, not much reason to replace them with electronics yet. I'd wait until your next tune-up and replace them at that point. Depending on which engine you have, you'll be saving 25 to 35 bucks at every tuneup because you don't need to buy new points and condenser. There are definate advantages to having something that doesn't change and doesn't wear out but don't expect miracles. After all, it's just a switch. You may notice easier starting when cold since your engine doesn't have a choke and a hotter coil along with correct dwell and timing every time helps.

 

[Eddie Ray]

Re: Aq125a electric ignition?

Thanks for all the input. When Or if I install I will be sure to stow the points and such in case I need them. I haven't checked my coil.would probably be best to just get a new one and be sure it's right. If I do that ,would I also need to stow the coil in an emergency?
I'm assuming the new coil would not be right for the system with points?
Thanks
Eddie

 

[PiratePast40]

Re: Aq125a electric ignition?

Your current system has a resister in the wiring harness. During starting, the resister is bypassed. After the key goes to the run position, it's put in the line. You can buy the 3 ohm, internally resisted coil from either one of the manufacturers (Pertronics or Hot Spark). You will no longer need the installed resister. You can bypass it or remove it if you want. Just leave the completed wire in place for the start circuit.

Not really necessary to carry the old coil unless you want to. If normally carry a set of spare points, and you think it's necessary, then go ahead and carry a spare set of points and condenser. It's up to you. I've had the Hot Spark for 3 seasons without a problem. At their simplest, the points are a mechanical switch prone to wear and erosion from the spark jumping the gap. The electronic pickup is a magnetic switch.