1st Question from a Newbie - Ignition

[MikeR]

I have a question about the distributor on my 1982 Fiat Spider 2000. I have replaced an inoperative vacuum advance capsule on my distributor with a new module. While I had the dizzy out I decided to fit a new magnetic pickup. Can anyone tell what the 'air gap' should be between the pickup and the tip of the lobes on the ditributor shaft. There seems to be quite a wide range of adjustment available. I set it very close (1mm) and the car starts and runs beautifully but has stopped abruptly twice while running under test. I am wondering if I have set it too close and the lobes have touched the new pickup as it warms up. How wide a gap should I leave?

Grateful for any wisdom and experience on this subject.

Mike R.

[So Cal Mark]

about .016, nearly the same as a set of points. As close as possible without the reluctor contacting the pickup, but you have to allow for some play in the dist shaft.

[MikeR]

Mark,

Many thanks for the prompt response I will give that a try.

Mike R.

[MikeR]

Great advice, thank you, Mark - all sorted now, it was all to do with making an allowance for the free-play. I found I could simulate / 'pre-load' and get it just right.

What a difference a working vacuum advance makes too! You think your car is running fine without and wonder what it really does. With a new working vaccum pod the throttle response is noticeably sharper and a real pleasure to drive.

And I also found out that you really need BOTH a 17mm stubby AND a 17mm crows-foot to comfortably tighten the dizzy back up after removal - but you guys knew that already - right !

Thanks again for a great forum - I am sure I will be back with more questions soon.

[ga.spyder]

Hey Mike glad to hear from another member of the 82 club.I recently changed my inop vac advance and it did make a noticeable improvement.I put in a new mag. p/u last year ,but didnt adjust anything. I guess it must be ok ,as I havent noticed any ill effects,but I will check it anyway.
Craig