PerTronix Flame-Thrower Cast Distributors D171600 - Manual (Page 2)

COMMON QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
WIRING
The
Flame-Thrower distributor can be used in conjunction with most
Ignition coils rated at 0.45 ohms or greater. For optimum performance purchase
and install a 0.6 ohm Flame-Thrower or 0.45 ohm HV high performance coil.
1. Many vehicles came equipped with ballast resistors or resistance wires. To
achieve optimum performance we recommended removal of these
components.
2. Determine the proper wire length, and attach the provided terminals. (Use a
designated wire crimping tool to achieve an adequate connection)
3. Attach the Red wire to the coil positive terminal or a 12-volt ignition source.
Note: Original ignition wire must be connected to the (+) positive side of the
Ignition coil.
4. Attach the Black wire to the coil negative terminal.
5. Check to insure correct polarity and that all connections are tight.
6. Reconnect the battery negative cable.
FINAL ADJUSTMENTS
1. Start the engine and set the initial timing.
2. Tighten the distributor hold down clamp.
3. For vacuum advance distributors, connect the vacuum hose to the vacuum
advance canister.
Q. How do I check my coil for primary resistance?
A. Remove all wires from the coil. Set the ohmmeter to the lowest scale. Attach one
lead of the meter to the positive coil terminal. Attach the other lead to the negative
coil terminal. The Flame-Thrower distributor is compatible with coils having a resis-
tance of 0.45 ohms or greater. See chart for compatible Flame-Thrower coils.
Q. May I modify the length of the wires?
A. Yes, you may cut the wires to any length your application requires. You may also
add lengths of wire if needed (20-gauge). Make sure that all wire splices are clean
and the connections are tight.
Q. How can I receive additional help?
A. Check our web site for current trouble shooting tips and up to date technical
information. Log on to www.pertronix.com. You may also contact our tech line at
(909-547-9058)
Q. The vehicle will start, but then die. After waiting it will start again. What is wrong?
A. Check for a “Low Voltage Problem.” If the voltage supplied to the Flame-Thrower
distributor red wire is insufficient, the system may run for a period of time, and
then shut down as the voltage drops due to engine heat. The period may vary
from minutes to hours depending on available voltage and wiring condition.
Q. The engine will not start or runs rough. What is the problem?
A. Check all connections to insure that they are tight, and in the proper location.
Make sure that the red wire from the Flamethrower distributor is supplied with a
full 12 volts. The Flame-Thrower distributor uses Ignitor II technology and is designed
to sense high current levels, and shut off before damage occurs. Check all wires
for shorts, correct polarity and that the ignition coil’s primary resistance level is
acceptable.
Q. How do I check for a “Low Voltage Problem” or determine if I am getting ade-
quate voltage?
A. To quickly test for a “Low Voltage Problem” or for adequate voltage, remove the
Flame-Thrower distributor red wire from the coil positive terminal. Attach a jumper
wire from the battery positive terminal to the distributor red wire. Try to start the
vehicle. If the vehicle starts, low voltage is the problem.
Q. Will the Flame-Thrower distributor work with aftermarket capacitive discharge boxes?
A. Yes, the Flame-Thrower distributor is compatible with most CD boxes in the same
respect as points. Use the CD box wiring instructions for point systems and treat
the Ignitor II black wire as a point wire. The Flame-Thrower red wire should be
attached to the 12-volt power source.
to a ported vacuum source. After setting initial timing the hose will be unplugged
and attached to the vacuum advance on the distributor.
For Non-vacuum advance distributors:
Locate the vacuum hose that was previously attached to the vacuum advance
canister. Remove the vacuum hose and plug the vacuum port.