Found a '74 Capri 2.8 in the JY....


Forcus

Forcus

15+ Year Member

Joined
Sep 18, 2007
Messages
111
Points
3,101
City
Sparland, IL
Vehicle Year
1984
Transmission
Automatic
Was wondering if I can use anything from the Capri. I was pretty excited at first and then read the 72-74 Capri's use a points-type or primitive electronic ignition - Not the Duraspark that we all want.

I didn't have tools to pull the air cleaner and take a look, and won't have a chance til next week, so thought I'd ask here. I didn't see a telltail Duraspark box and couldn't get to the distributor.

Also, is the carb the desirable unit?
 
The DuraSpark has a different coil and SHOULD have the adapter for the large diameter distributor cap.

Also look closely at the carb - it may make a good core for a conversion.
And you know enpugh not to get the complete engine.
 
enginepaul said:
The DuraSpark has a different coil and SHOULD have the adapter for the large diameter distributor cap.

Also look closely at the carb - it may make a good core for a conversion.
And you know enpugh not to get the complete engine.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the response!! So does this mean that the Capri has the "original" Duraspark (Duraspark I??)? Is it still usable in the same way as the Duraspark II?
 
If the distributer has a huge two piece cap it is probably DS, there should be a wheel with 6 blades inside the cap if it is. I bet it is points which would still work if you wanted it to, if you take the smallish cap (compared to DS) off you would see breaker points in it.

I thought straight Duraspark is what you wanted for a RBV swap? My box only says "Duraspark" on it, it works. Four cylinders Rangers did come with the Duraspark II from the factory however.
 
85_Ranger4x4 said:
If the distributer has a huge two piece cap it is probably DS, there should be a wheel with 6 blades inside the cap if it is. I bet it is points which would still work if you wanted it to, if you take the smallish cap (compared to DS) off you would see breaker points in it.

I thought straight Duraspark is what you wanted for a RBV swap? My box only says "Duraspark" on it, it works. Four cylinders Rangers did come with the Duraspark II from the factory however.
Click to expand...

This is my understanding:

Duraspark I is the original non-points electronic ignition introduced in 1973. It is closest to a traditional electronic ignition and uses the same type of hall effect trigger, external box, and coil. Duraspark II was introduced in 1976 and is what people here reference as the Duraspark conversion, with the wide cap and improved external box.

So it sounds like it is similar but not the same. Since I am just looking for a good MPG truck with a little power (not planning on exhaust mods or anything else), I am not too worried about having the "best", just reliable, without the TFI and computer.

I think I am going to go to the JY and take some pics and do some wrenching. Can't hurt!
 
I also found this:

In 1974, Ford/Mercury began to use breakerless ignition systems. The first of these electronic ignition systems was originally just referred to as the breakerless ignition system, but later, in 1977, it became known as Duraspark. The Duraspark I system, and the next version, Duraspark II were nearly identical in operation, and virtually identical in appearance. The Duraspark I uses a special control module which senses current flow through the ignition coil and adjusts the coil for maximum spark intensity. If the Duraspark I module senses that the ignition is ON, but the distributor shaft is not turning, the current to the coil is turned OFF by the module.

The Duraspark II system does not have this feature. The coil is energized for the full amount of time that the ignition switch is ON. Keep this in mind when servicing the Duraspark II system, as the ignition system could inadvertently fire while performing ignition system services (such as distributor cap removal) while the ignition is ON. All Duraspark II systems are easily identified by having a two-piece, flat topped distributor cap.

From: http://www.geocities.com/cantwait_forviolence/cj_ignmod.html

It appears they are very similar,
 
Also:

Ford began using electronic ignitions in 1973 and introduced the Duraspark II system in 1976. The biggest change, apart from the control box redesign, was the large distributor cap to handle the increased spark energy. The system consists of a magnetic reluctor and pickup in the distributor, and an ignition module to trigger the coil. Typically, the distributors have both mechanical and vacuum advance mechanisms. The curve is reset by using inexpensive springs and adjustable advance units.

From: http://home.cfl.rr.com/mustangsix/Engine/duraspark.htm
 
It probably has a points-type ignition - nothing wrong with that system, in my book - very simple to install, reliable, and easy to maintain.

I'd be interested in the intake manifold, if it's in good shape and a reasonable price.
 
swampy said:
It probably has a points-type ignition - nothing wrong with that system, in my book - very simple to install, reliable, and easy to maintain.

I'd be interested in the intake manifold, if it's in good shape and a reasonable price.
Click to expand...

What's the difference between this and the Ranger 2.8 intake?

EDIT: Old but good info here too:

http://www.geocities.com/motorcity/flats/3349/
 
Last edited:
What's the difference between this and the Ranger 2.8 intake?
Click to expand...


I'm thinking it should take the Holley 5200 carb that year, and I happen to have a brand new one that's never been used.
 
I've got a carbed Ranger 2.8 sittin here collectin dust...so it would be nice to know if somebody could use something off it.
 
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