8N electronic ignition adventures

I replaced the (front mount) coil on my '47 earlier a few weeks ago because it was beginning to fail. The tractor ran better the next two times I used it, but would not start for the third planned mowing session. I replaced the points and condenser but discovered that the distributor cam was so worn the maximum point gap was .009". Assuming my new coil was okay, I bought the basic Pertronix EI kit from a local (Columbia, MO) dealer which doesn't utilize a regular automotive type coil. I was stunned to discover how bad these Taiwanese aftermarket coils are - the old aftermarket coil lasted eight years, but I didn't get eight HOURS out of the latest one. Then I bit the bullet and bought the Pertronix kit from YTC that I should have purchased the first time. I installed a 12v conversion kit in 2006 and there was just enough room on the top alternator bracket to mount the coil with a 1" carriage bolt at about a ten degree upward angle. The tractor started on the first crank and was running stronger than it had for a while. The worn point cam was surely having an effect before the ignition stopped sparking. One nit-pick with the kit - the adaptor plate sealed the distributor cap cavity, but left a small gap on the side of the distributor opposite the mounting screw. If the screw supplied to help hold the adaptor plate to the distributor was a tad longer, the cork coil gasket could be used to seal the distributor better. I don't think it will be a factor in performance reliability because the EI sensor is sealed and should not be affected by a little dust or moisture. This is easily remedied with a squirt of silicone or a longer screw and reinstalling the coil gasket. Anyway, I'm happy to have the tractor up & running again!

It"s VERY unlikely that the distributor CAM was worn so bad you could only get .009" point gap.

MOST likely, it was a set of points from "The Land of Almost Right". LOTS of reports of such improperly-made points.

POSSIBLY some bushing wear, as well!

Just remember to never leave the ignition switch "ON" if the engine is not running "cuz you will let some $$$$ smoke out of the EI, and, likely, the coil.

I hear and take your points (pun intended), Bob. I am glad they are now moot since I have gone electronic. Suspecting the points was my first idea and from what I've experienced of the "land of not-quite right" expect you are correct in that they were not manufactured to correct tolerance(s). In my research, I did come across a discussion/warning about not leaving the system energized when the engine is not running, but thanks for the additional reminder!