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MSD Ignition?? Or Bosch CDS

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Old 06-03-2002, 11:04 PM
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Toddimus
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Question MSD Ignition?? Or Bosch CDS

Anyone have advice? I'm thinking about replacing the Bosch CDS box with the MSD 6AL box on my '81SC. I'm sure someone has something to say about this modification. Is it worth it? (I found one on the web for $172 bucks!).

<img src="graemlins/burnout.gif" border="0" alt="[burnout]" />
Old 06-03-2002, 11:34 PM
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A Quiet Boom
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I personally swear by MSD ignition systems particularly the 6al for it's "soft-touch rev limiter" but I have heard that the factory tach either won't work at all or at the least needs an adapter. If it's any testament MSD is used very successfully in many forms of motorsports. I'd call their tech line for info on hooking it up to the porsche 6. I currently run a 7al with cranktrigger and timing computer in my dragcar, no regrets whatsoever.
Old 06-04-2002, 02:07 AM
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Steve Weiner-Rennsport Systems
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[quote]Originally posted by Toddimus:
<strong>Anyone have advice? I'm thinking about replacing the Bosch CDS box with the MSD 6AL box on my '81SC. I'm sure someone has something to say about this modification. Is it worth it? (I found one on the web for $172 bucks!).

<img src="graemlins/burnout.gif" border="0" alt="[burnout]" /> </strong><hr></blockquote>

Toddimus:

IMHO, I'd use the MSD 6AL in a NY minute,... Be sure to use the MSD matching coil as the Bosch and MSD coils are different impedances; I like the High-Vibration Blaster one.

You can e-mail me directly and I'll send you instructions on adapting the MSD 6AL to your SC.

No worries, Sir.
Old 06-04-2002, 09:17 PM
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CamB
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Steve forgot his usual addendum that an upgrade to Magnecor wires would be a good option too
Old 06-04-2002, 09:30 PM
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Steve Weiner-Rennsport Systems
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[quote]Originally posted by CamB:
<strong>Steve forgot his usual addendum that an upgrade to Magnecor wires would be a good option too </strong><hr></blockquote>

LOL,....Thanks Cam! I'm glad you were paying attention,...
Old 06-05-2002, 11:14 PM
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Dean
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I installed the MSD this winter. My tach worked with no problems. I installed a MSD coil next to the box verticly with a long coil wire. MSD said that you can't run the regular msd coil upside down so I put it nearr the box.
Go for it
Dean
Old 06-06-2002, 12:51 AM
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Toddimus
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Dean,

Did you replace your stock unit because it failed, or was it for a performance increase? If so, did you experience any increase? And what year do you have?

I know...a lot of questions...but I want to know before I invest.

Cheers
Old 06-06-2002, 03:08 AM
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Steve Weiner-Rennsport Systems
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[quote]Originally posted by Dean:
<strong>I installed the MSD this winter. My tach worked with no problems. I installed a MSD coil next to the box verticly with a long coil wire. MSD said that you can't run the regular msd coil upside down so I put it nearr the box.
Go for it
Dean</strong><hr></blockquote>

Dean brings up a good point. The "normal" MSD coils should be mounted with the high-tension terminal facing up, otherwise the coil won't last very long.

This is why I always use and recommend the High-Vibration Blaster coil (or the E-core ones) as they can be mounted in any position without worry.
Old 06-07-2002, 11:44 PM
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Dean
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I upgraded because my wiring was shot. The only thing that I notice is that my car runs cleaner (less plug fouling) when cold. I sold my box to someone who needed a spare. That almost paid for the MSD.
Dean
Old 06-13-2002, 12:56 AM
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snakepitt1
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What about using the MSD 6AL on a 1973 911T? Are there any special considerations when used on this year? Or, will it just not work? Oh, I have already installed the Magnecor wire set.

Scott Harris
1973 911T targa
Old 06-13-2002, 04:03 AM
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CamB
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It is an easy install on a '73T. Well, it is never entirely easy as the MSD box is quite big (and hence hard to find a good place to mount - it doesn't fit in the space the old CD box sits in), but otherwise it is pretty simple.

I just removed mine (long and happy story involving MoTeC and twin Bosch ignition modules ) and reinstalled it on a mechanically fuel inject BMW 2002tii - it runs great.

Cam
Old 06-13-2002, 08:43 AM
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Drew Theodore
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I don't know if you will feel any performance gaines. The car will run smoother when cold. If you are having to replace spark plugs a lot, you will have to less with the MSD. The stock system provides enough current at the higher RPMs as it is performance wise. Where a real difference is felt with MSD is on a car with an old points system, at high RPMs.
Old 06-13-2002, 03:04 PM
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Steve Weiner-Rennsport Systems
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Just an addendum to this thread,.......

One of the main benefits of using MSD ignitions is that their output levels are high enough to support the wide plug gaps that make better power and smoother idling.

Set those plug gaps at .040 to .045 for much better running characteristics and little more HP.

Just make certain that the plug wires, cap, and rotor are in top shape!

They are,......the Weakest Link,.....
Old 06-13-2002, 03:28 PM
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911pcars
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Cam wrote:
"...Well, it is never entirely easy as the MSD box is quite big (and hence hard to find a good place to mount - it doesn't fit in the space the old CD box sits in), ..."

It was for this reason I picked up a Crane Hi-6S unit. It's got a smaller footprint than the MSDs and other Crane units and fits (with some real estate adjustments) in the left side side where I can access the rev limit controls.



Sherwood Lee
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Old 06-14-2002, 12:51 AM
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Dean
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I was able to fit the MSD box where the Bosch box was. I had to build an bracket that spaced out the MSD about 1/2". The coil is on the same bracket.
Dean


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