Installing another cars electronic distributor for, Consul or Zephyr, Zodiac Mkl-lll.
Pictures and information by Karl Schluter. Copyright.
Stage 3
As detailed by 55zed in
his well-received article Updating ignition, adapting another cars distributor is NOT
rocket science.
A few points to consider;
·
1 - Use a
pre computer system.
·
2 - Make sure the
replacement distributor is designed to run in the same direction as the
original Lucas part. (Consul Mkl-ll, Zephyr-Zodiac Mkl-lll, all Counter
Clockwise).
·
3 - Make sure it clears the
battery box and other items close by,
·
4 - Try to find a
distributor with vacuum advance.
·
5 - Find a system that’s common with easy to
find, cheap replacement parts!
·
6 - Chose a distributor with
a cap that has widely spaced terminals, this helps prevent cross fire, more so
if a high powered box is added (some new car factory caps also now have vents,
another plus).
·
7 - Measure twice-Cut once!
·
8 - Measure the donor distributor against the
factory Lucas distributor, for width (A) and length (B) that goes into the
Zephyr block and machine the donors body to the same spec’s. If the body that
fits inside the block is undersize, bush it out to the Lucas size. Groove the
body for a factory type O ring or use a paper gasket. A slot for oil to release
from the body to inside the block can be added as per the factory distributor
body.
·
9 - Next measure the main shaft width (C) and
length (D) as it leaves the distributor bodies half that fits into the block.
Then double check the total measurement as to how it would fit into the block
against the Lucas measurement (E) before machining to suit.
·
10 - Between the Distributor body and drive cog
fit the factory type brass shim with minimum end float as set out in the
Consul, Zephyr or Zodiac hand book. Use the Zephyr/Zodiac/Consul oil pump drive
collar on the replacement distributor. Fit a new hardened pin.
·
11 - If the module is
separate of the distributor, mount it under the battery box (if this area is acid
clean) or on a plate near by, as long as its out of the way of acid, fuel, heat
and moisture. Near the brake booster on the flat area opposite to where a
window wiper motor would be mounted on Mklll models is a good area for Mklll’s.
If the factory module was mounted on a heat sink before, buy some from a
electronics shop or supplier and use the correct silicone grease between the
heat sink and module.
·
12 - Use the Consul, Zephyr
or Zodiac firing order.
·
13 - Use the matching
Japanese coil.
Barry in NZ offers
conversions as well http://www.qualityrebuilds.com/
Continued in Ignition
Upgrade Part 5
Do visit the Ignition Upgrade Part 5 for links, companies etc.
Disclaimer:
The advice and guidelines given in these articles are given in good faith.
The owners and managers of the Galeforce Zephyr site will take no
responsibility for any injuries or loss sustained while carrying out the
described tasks and procedures or any consequences arising. Please read
the Safety First
Article