I have a 1985 W150 with a 435 transmission. Since I have the parts, I'm trying to install a Chrysler style HE ignition system and convert it to GM when I get a chance to scrounge through a friends junk yard. The engine likely has well over 200K and is so worn that the fuel pump cam is starting to fail; the timing chain is probably original. I decided to rebuild the engine, and the machine shop should be done in a couple of days. I'm using a Cardone 30-3690 (single pickup with a Vacuum advance).

With the old engine, the problem is this:
Starting the engine - Sounds like a lot of conflict is going on between ignition and piston/valve position. starts OK with ESA.
Once it starts, it runs great.
I've ranged the advance from 12 to 6 degrees with no improvement.

I don't want to destroy the new engine.
Do I need the dual pickup dist?
Any good books on this subject?

Welcome on the board.

H'mm. I'm having trouble figuring out what symptoms you're experiencing, based on the description you've given. Starting troubles…? What kind? What means "conflict between ignition and piston/valve position"?

You've got the correct type of distributor (single pickup, vacuum advance) for the conversion you're trying to do, tho Cardone parts are generally of very poor quality, so you kind of have to hope that you got one that's good enough at least for a get-by deal until you can get a better distributor.

Sounds like the engine was a really tired pony by the time you pulled it for rebuild — once rebuilt, it should serve as a much better and easier base for getting your ignition system dialled in to work the way you want. You would have to work very hard to destroy the new engine with the ignition system.

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Too many people who were born on third base actually believe they've hit a triple.

The rough start ... it's as if the timing is far too advanced. The mystery is that it starts without problems using the ESA! Maybe one or more of the sensors causes the ESA to compensate. Thanks for confirming the correct distributor. That was most worrisome. I'll hold off on any more inquiries until I finish assembling and installing the engine.

The one nice thing about the Cardone website, is that it lists the applications by part number. It can identify other salvage yard sources. I sure wish more manufacturers would make a similar xref available online.

Again, I'd like some suggestions for reading material on distributors and timing modifications to effect better mileage. Any suggestions?

What exactly do you experience that you are calling a "rough start"?

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一期一会
Too many people who were born on third base actually believe they've hit a triple.

The engine turns over with great effort and in an irregular fashion, as if an opposing force were acting to prevent rotation. Once it catches, it runs smoothly. Sort of like a constipation end game, eh mon ami?