GreenMonster138

I was wondering what everyone thinks the best HEI distributor for a 350? I was looking to not spend the bank on one, but if I have to I know that you pay for what you get. I will be using the motor for daily use, not racing only. But I want something that will be able to handle up to 7000 rpms for in the future. Anyone information would greatly help me out.
thanks Nicholas Les Chander

blue 79 Z/28

stock GM unit, upgrade the module, put a really good coil in it like accel or something, put a new vac adv on it, and basically mod all that you can mod on it, thats what im usin and i got 550+hp on nos and no problems yet =) or you can run an external coil with an ignition box, thats good too.

CHPshown67

I have heard of guys putting new distributors from Caprices in their cars, but dont know too much about that. If it is true you could pick one up out of a junkyard for cheap. So if anyone else has heard anything about that it might help you out.

jg95z28

I've only run the stock non-HEI (rebuilt with the Accel upgrade kit) and the Mallory Unilite (Series 47 w/ Vacuum Advance) on my 1st-gen small blocks. I considered the GM HEI but I was worried about clearance and then I got a great deal on the Mallory ($80).

The stock GM HEI should fit though. Definitely upgrade the coil.

I ran the Accel Super Coil in my '68 RS with the Unilite. I also added Jacobs HEI conversion posts, so I could use the Accel 8.8mm HEI plug wires... and of course I indexed the plugs and went one level colder.

cadjock

I read a test awhile back and for a mild engine (6500 rpm), the stick HEI was as good as all the high dollar units.

Charles9c1

Dave Greene may have better information but I have heard the HEI is just fine to 6000-7000 rpm. I had mine recurved and put on an accell coil, adjustable vacuum advance and good wires. I will put in the MSD module and the day my coil goes sideways I'm putting a stock one back on. Wires I do believe make a difference versus the stock sets. I don't believe that an MSD is all that reliable a system but some may disagree. IF you ran an MSD I believe their digital system is much better than the old style. Finally I think people generally do more than they need with their ignition. Most important is a fresh HEI recurved with damn good wires, separated properly and kept cool as possible.