MSD

jhellemn · Oct 13, 2011

I am planning on moving up from Div 2 and starting to pull Div 3. What MSD box do most Div 3 pullers run? The 6A or 6AL2? The voltage is now the same on the 6A and 6AL2 so the only difference is the adjustable timing it looks like. Can't run rev limiters so that is of no use. Also what wires and coils? I have read the article in the Hook and it was good but was most interested in what everyone is actually running.
Thanks!

Goldsburg · Oct 13, 2011

In my opinion, you will find that many Div 3 pullers MAY be running a MSD-type ignition, but it is money well wasted.

A standard points type ignition and a good high output coil will fire any div 3 engine. The coil saturation time at these low tractor engine speeds is much much more than enough to reach full coil output (saturation).

If you do not like the "risk" of having a condenser failure at a pull or the cleaning of points when not running the ballast, then upgrade to an electronic firing system such as an Ignitor and use (again) a good high output coil with this setup.

I have fired 325+PSI cylinders running rich mixtures of 117 racing fuel without issue, all with a points ignition.

If you understand the difference in how the two ignition system function and why the MSD-type ignitions were created in the first place, you will then understand why they are not "needed"...

Regards,

Goldsburg

wi50 · Oct 13, 2011

For what it"s worth, I do not use an MSD. One of my engines is governed at 3000 RPM, it"s simply got a $80 petroix electric ignition setup and a good coil and wires. In all reality, that is probably more than is even needed.

The other tractor engine is not governed and can rev well past 6000 RPM, it uses a GM HEI with a decent module and coil.

There"s been a lot of wasted money on fancy systems as people like to ove complicate things they do not understand.

MH49 · Oct 13, 2011

I am not going to argue the benefits of an MSD type ignition one way or the other. I will offer that I have run both the MSD 6AL and the comparable Summit brand box and I saw no difference between the two and the Summit is quite a bit cheaper. Unless you are interested in the programmable timing curves, the 6AL2 would not offer any benefit over the standard 6A.

RichB · Oct 13, 2011

Unless you are running high RPM's you dont need a MSD (multiple spark disappointment) Good coil and pointless ignition is all you need...I ran one on a 421 cid Oliver engine with 300psi comp. using C16+ fuel at 2600 RPM.Ran fine,went to a high output coil and electronic pickup and it actually ran better! I have a MSD on the shelf in my garage if you want it?

Ed Carlsen · Oct 13, 2011

If you have a 6AL I would be interested 870-625-0026

Anonymous-0 · Oct 13, 2011

coil saturation time . the msd shows no advantage under 3000 rpms in this area due to the mutiple sparks but once the multiple spark are gone due to rpm . watch it . plus msd stands alone when utilized with a 16 to 18 volts like a 16 volt race battery at all rpm range. seen it to many times take the 12 volt battery out put the 16 volt in and whatch the stoich .

Mike Bock · Oct 13, 2011

had a stock oliver that was fouling plugs bad put on a msd 5 hasnt fouled them since

jhellemn · Oct 14, 2011

(quoted from post at 21:42:21 10/13/11) had a stock oliver that was fouling plugs bad put on a msd 5 hasnt fouled them since

This is exactly the reason I am interested in adding MSD to the tractor. I have the plug fouling problem as well. I guess I will look into the new 6A and prob go with that. Thanks!

Anonymous-0 · Oct 14, 2011

Why don't you fix the problem that is making your plugs foul? (ie. carburetor or bad oil rings)

RichB · Oct 14, 2011

No its just the 6A model.

Goldburg · Oct 14, 2011

Good point! But don't forget about using the wrong heat range or even having a bad coil!

On a related side note, I have ALWAYS had problems fouling Champion spark plugs (even on a bone stock engine). This problem spans more than 20 years on and off, so it can't be chalked up to an isolated incident. It makes me wonder if Mike Bock and his Oliver mentioned below were running Champion plugs...?

Regards,

Goldsburg

jhellemn · Oct 14, 2011

(quoted from post at 07:56:33 10/14/11) Why don't you fix the problem that is making your plugs foul? (ie. carburetor or bad oil rings)

Because the motor makes very good power as it sits and I do not want to screw with a good thing.

If people hate MSD so much then who wants to sell me a 6A at a really good price?

RichB · Oct 14, 2011

(quoted from post at 18:22:01 10/14/11)

(quoted from post at 07:56:33 10/14/11) Why don't you fix the problem that is making your plugs foul? (ie. carburetor or bad oil rings)

Click to expand...

Because the motor makes very good power as it sits and I do not want to screw with a good thing.

If people hate MSD so much then who wants to sell me a 6A at a really good price?

I have a 6A make me an offer and I will ship it UPS to you..I have no idea what they sell for new?

Anonymous-0 · Oct 14, 2011

"the motor makes very good power..."

It's a Div 2 tractor!!!! What is it? 65HP?

BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

jhellemn · Oct 14, 2011

(quoted from post at 18:43:01 10/14/11) "the motor makes very good power..."

It's a Div 2 tractor!!!! What is it? 65HP?

BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

It's a 409 stroker motor with all the fixings. Since you have such a BIG mouth what do you have?

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