need some ignition help

[mattn14]

bought this car in boxes and have put it all together ran it friday well needless to saw not a good time.the way this ford ignition is wired just does not look right. its got the smaller cap with the module on the side of distributor with 3 wires cut and taped off. It seems like the timing isnt advancing and just dies out but runs great in garage. my question is does there need to be another box to advance timing? i can advance it while running and seems to run better but wont restart if stalled. thanks to all for any help

[Browndog]

With that setup there you have to set the timing at the total advance you are wanting. There is no mechanical advance in the distributor. So if you want let's say 36 degrees total advance then you have to set it at idle with your timing light at 36 degrees initial. It can make it hard to start (Especially hot). A lot of people use this distributor because it is simple and cheap. I would not personally use it but lots of guys do

[mattn14]

thanks for input what would you run with? I think this was the problem with no advance car ran horrible

[Browndog]

Try set your timing to around 34-36 degrees and see what it runs like. I've used Mallory Unilite or Pro Billet on most of my stuff.

[Old Rob]

You most likely have a TFI set up from a late 2.3 ford. It uses a hall effect trigger. Very consistant timming and reliable. Not hard to start, just turn the ignition off, spin the engine and flip the switch. V-room.

[mattn14]

Hey thanks for that tip I believe you are correct on distributor. been trying to get it all ready to go

[mattn14]

Hey thanks for that tip I believe you are correct on distributor. been trying to get it all ready to go