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Old 10-21-2020, 04:43 PM   #1
First time restorer
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Default Replacing points on 39 Ford

I’m getting ready to replace the points on my 39 Ford Deluxe with the electronic igniter. Is this a straight forward change or are there some tricks to it.
I’m keeping everything at 6 volts so that’s why I’m not replacing the entire distributor.

Thanks for any helpful advice.
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Old 10-21-2020, 08:43 PM   #2
drolston
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Default Re: Replacing points on 39 Ford

The switch from points to Pertronix is very straightforward and the instructions are clear. No tricks except to use exactly the coil and ignition wires recommended by Pertronix. This board notes that in the earlier days of Pertronix, the 6v version was reputed to have some reliability issues, versus the 12 volts units, which had few problems.

I run a 12v Pertronix and have never had a problem, however, I carry a points distributor in the trunk because, unlike a points distributor, roadside repair for an electronic distributor is a tow truck.
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Old 10-21-2020, 09:22 PM   #3
40cpe
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Default Re: Replacing points on 39 Ford

There have been reports of generators producing voltage spikes that can fry electronic ignitions. I have always found Pertronix to have excellent tech support. A call to them explaining your situation might save you some headaches.
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Old 10-22-2020, 09:27 AM   #4
Zeke3
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Default Re: Replacing points on 39 Ford

You might want to read through this discussion before switching to an electronic ignition on a car with 6v electrical system. Note specifically posts #15 and #25.
https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=285887

Last edited by Zeke3; 10-22-2020 at 09:29 AM. Reason: Added post numbers.
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Old 10-22-2020, 02:52 PM   #5
JayChicago
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Default Re: Replacing points on 39 Ford

Also read post #4 there.
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Old 10-22-2020, 05:28 PM   #6
tubman
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Default Re: Replacing points on 39 Ford

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Quote:
Originally Posted by JayChicago View Post
Also read post #4 there.
I completely agree with these guys; electronic conversions are not the panacea they seem to at first glance. Learn about your car and stick to a points ignition. In the long run, you'll be glad you did.
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Old 10-22-2020, 06:50 PM   #7
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Default Re: Replacing points on 39 Ford

If you can sit tight on the conversion I suggest you do. I'm currently working with them as the unit I installed after about 2 hours however I didn't have the plug wires they require you to use. I basically got the green light the first install to use the stock wires as a test and that may have been a bad move. I to will carry a spare dist and coil if this second rod is successful.

I'm setting up a complete second dist, conduit and wires they want and will try it.

Stay tuned but suggest temporarily setting up a distributor with points.
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