Distributor Model Number and Removal Questions
 

I plan on putting a Pertronix Ignitor in my 1964 GMC pickup with a 305E V6 engine to replace points that have been a problem to change and adjust. This requires both knowing the distributor number, to get the correct Ignitor parts, and being able to remove the distributor. As I understand it, two distributors were used on these V6 engines. One with a larger, screw-on rotor and the other with a smaller, push-on rotor. I have the smaller, push-on rotor model.

With the distributor buried at the back of the engine, where it is very hard to work on or remove to find a distributor number, can anyone tell me what the distributor number or Pertronix part number would be?

Also, the firewall on this pickup overhangs the engine above the distributor, so I would like to be sure that I can remove the distributor without pulling the engine forward?

Thank you for any information or advice to help with this project.

jrmunn

Re: Distributor Model Number and Removal Questions
 

JR --

You don't have to remove the distributor to install a Pertronix unit. Installation is simple and should take no more than a half hour. I've always ordered mine from Retrorockets. The one you want is model 1162A.

See: http://vintageperformance.com/retror...mc%20truck.htm

Re: Distributor Model Number and Removal Questions
 

Ed,

Thank you for sharing your experience and parts source! I am glad to hear that installing the Ignitor is not difficult. But, in my case, I can't seem to even open and close the hood in 1/2 hour.

I do have a follow-up question. About six months ago, I replaced the coil, cap, rotor, points, ignition wires, and plugs. Will all of this (except the points) work with a Pertronix Ignitor? In particular, I would like to know before I start whether I need a different coil. I have also seen some mention of a resistance wire between the ignition switch and the coil, but don't know if this would apply, or make a difference, to my pickup.

And what do you use for plugs? I had a set of unused plugs that was purchased years ago, but it seems that these plugs aren't available any more.

Thank you again for the help!

JRMunn

Re: Distributor Model Number and Removal Questions
 

JR --

All your recently installed parts will work fine. I've used the Pertronix upgrade coil, but the stock coil should be satisfactory.

You should replace the resistor wire with normal wire.

I don't remember which spark plugs I've used. I'm not near my trucks right now. I'm sure someone else here on the forum can chime in.

Re: Distributor Model Number and Removal Questions
 

Yeah and save that resistor wire. Someone will want it (me if no one else!)

Re: Distributor Model Number and Removal Questions
 

I replace the coil. I was told that this must be done. I guess it depends who you ask, but that was the recommendation from the manufacturer. I did not want to take a chance. My 1965 305E is running fine with it. History: When I took it to Alaska from central California in 2008 I had to replace the points several times. I really had trouble finding a spare condenser. This electronic solution sure seems to make a lot of sense.