- Joined
- Nov 12, 2018
- Messages
- 1,249
- Reaction score
- 510
- Points
- 113
- Location
- Alcoa, TN
- Engine Type
- 2.8 V6
- Transmission
- Automatic
- 2WD / 4WD
- 4WD
Hi all, I am going to convert my 85 2.8L to the duraspark distributor with the GM HEI set up.
I'm just making this thread for reference and to have part numbers handy.
The distributor I will most likely go with this one:
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/cardone-distributor-electronic-w-o-module-domestic-reman-30-2691/5630517-P?navigationPath=L1*14923|L2*15034|L3*16062
For the cap adapter this one:
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/bwd-distributor-cap-adapter-c193a/20170295-P?searchTerm=distributor+caps+&+adapters
For the cap itself I would use this one:
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/bwd-distributor-cap-c193/18200064-P?searchTerm=distributor+cap
Distributor Rotor:
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/bwd-distributor-rotor-d219/18200126-P?searchTerm=distributor+rotor
This is where I would deviate slightly from the Tech Article, I would like to keep my stock "square" TFI coil, and then replace the Duraspark module with a GM HEI module (blasphemy I know...).
From reading online, it might be considered an upgrade, but it is definitely more available and I can use my current coil.
For a 4 terminal HEI, I am showing this one to work:
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/acdelco-ignition-control-module-d1906/3964477-P?navigationPath=L1*14923|L2*15034|L3*16066|L4*-49999414
I think I will keep the feedback carb that I currently have, but I will make (or have the guys at work) a metering block for the back where the solenoid is currently.
The only other item I will have to address is installing a pressure switch for the solenoid on the A4LD. I think I can do that fairly easily.
Here is the switch I would use:
https://transmissioncenter.net/shop/a4ldps-a4ld-lock-up-torque-converter-pressure-switch-this-is-an-automatic-engagement-solution-50-psi/
Articles I have referenced:
https://www.broncoiicorral.com/tech_library/ford-2-8l-duraspark-ignition-conversion/
https://www.therangerstation.com/how-to/transmission-transfer-case-driveshaft/a4ld-pressure-switch-for-lock-up-torque-convertor/
Am I missing anything? I currently have it running OK on the stock feedback setup, but it is getting horrible gas mileage. I would rather go with a fairly simple system that is easy to diagnose and repair.....
I'm just making this thread for reference and to have part numbers handy.
The distributor I will most likely go with this one:
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/cardone-distributor-electronic-w-o-module-domestic-reman-30-2691/5630517-P?navigationPath=L1*14923|L2*15034|L3*16062
For the cap adapter this one:
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/bwd-distributor-cap-adapter-c193a/20170295-P?searchTerm=distributor+caps+&+adapters
For the cap itself I would use this one:
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/bwd-distributor-cap-c193/18200064-P?searchTerm=distributor+cap
Distributor Rotor:
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/bwd-distributor-rotor-d219/18200126-P?searchTerm=distributor+rotor
This is where I would deviate slightly from the Tech Article, I would like to keep my stock "square" TFI coil, and then replace the Duraspark module with a GM HEI module (blasphemy I know...).
From reading online, it might be considered an upgrade, but it is definitely more available and I can use my current coil.
For a 4 terminal HEI, I am showing this one to work:
https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/acdelco-ignition-control-module-d1906/3964477-P?navigationPath=L1*14923|L2*15034|L3*16066|L4*-49999414
I think I will keep the feedback carb that I currently have, but I will make (or have the guys at work) a metering block for the back where the solenoid is currently.
The only other item I will have to address is installing a pressure switch for the solenoid on the A4LD. I think I can do that fairly easily.
Here is the switch I would use:
https://transmissioncenter.net/shop/a4ldps-a4ld-lock-up-torque-converter-pressure-switch-this-is-an-automatic-engagement-solution-50-psi/
Articles I have referenced:
https://www.broncoiicorral.com/tech_library/ford-2-8l-duraspark-ignition-conversion/
https://www.therangerstation.com/how-to/transmission-transfer-case-driveshaft/a4ld-pressure-switch-for-lock-up-torque-convertor/
Am I missing anything? I currently have it running OK on the stock feedback setup, but it is getting horrible gas mileage. I would rather go with a fairly simple system that is easy to diagnose and repair.....