1966 289 Electronic Ignition

M

MrStangBoise

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Jul 18, 2024

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Jan 18, 2025

#1

• Jan 18, 2025

• #1

Hello, I have a 1966 Mustang 289 that’s all original.

I would like to upgrade to an electronic ignition. I am trying to decide between the Duraspark 12000A and a Pertronix D134600.

Is the Duraspark compatible with the stock air cleaner cover?

Does the Pertronics come with a cast-iron gear.

Does anyone have any recommendations between these two or maybe something else?

Thanks in advance for your help!

Dan

Link to Pertronix
Check out this page from Summit Racing https://www.summitracing.com/parts/..._xgo7i382hj0h9i-ohqw7qtszcwhzningyzsebcllojaj

Link to Dura Spark

*12000A - Ford/Mercury; 260/289/302 SBF V8; DuraSpark Electronic Ignition Conversion; Cast Iron Gear

Ford Dura-Spark electronic ignition conversion kit for any small block Ford powered vehicle with a points type distributor. This kit includes all new, OE quality components for reliable fit and performance.

www.classicindustries.com

 

Realmongo

I prefer to be called "Evil Genius"

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Oct 10, 2001

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Jan 19, 2025

#2

• Jan 19, 2025

• #2

I simply bought the Pertronix conversion kit and installed it into the original distributor. It's been working fine now for the past 25 years.

 

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MrStangBoise

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Jan 19, 2025

#3

• Jan 19, 2025

• #3

Thanks for the suggestions. The original distributor has way too much play in, so I need a new one anyway.
Car is also running very very rich. Exhaust smell is terrible.
I’m hoping an electronic ignition will make it run more efficiently.

 

Noobz347

Stangnet Facilities Maint Tech... Er... Janitor

Admin Dude

Jan 4, 1985

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Jan 19, 2025

#4

• Jan 19, 2025

• #4

MrStangBoise said:

Thanks for the suggestions. The original distributor has way too much play in, so I need a new one anyway.
Car is also running very very rich. Exhaust smell is terrible.
I’m hoping an electronic ignition will make it run more efficiently.

Click to expand...

If it is an OEM distributor, I would [highly] recommend you rebuild it versus buying some aftermarket nightmare that's going to leave you on the side of the road.

 

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MrStangBoise

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Jan 21, 2025

#5

• Jan 21, 2025

• #5

It looks like I need a distributor with a cast-iron gear. It’s very difficult to find.
Does anyone know where I can get a cast iron gear for my distributor on my 1966 289?

 

Realmongo

I prefer to be called "Evil Genius"

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Oct 10, 2001

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Jan 22, 2025

#6

• Jan 22, 2025

• #6

MrStangBoise said:

It looks like I need a distributor with a cast-iron gear. It’s very difficult to find.
Does anyone know where I can get a cast iron gear for my distributor on my 1966 289?

Click to expand...

What distributor are we talking about?
The cast iron gear was standard on the original distributors and was used with the stock flat tappet cast iron cams.
The steel gears are used on Roller cams.

 

85GTStangGuy

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May 19, 2021

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Jan 22, 2025

#7

• Jan 22, 2025

• #7

MrStangBoise said:

Does anyone know where I can get a cast iron gear for my distributor on my 1966 289?

Click to expand...

Here ya go....

DISTRIBUTOR GEAR, REPLACEMENT - #12390-2 - National Parts Depot

Buy part #12390-2 DISTRIBUTOR GEAR, REPLACEMENT for your classic vehicle from National Parts Depot. Free shipping on orders over $300, fast delivery & everyday low pricing! Order now!

www.npdlink.com

 

M

MrStangBoise

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Jan 22, 2025

#8

• Jan 22, 2025

• #8

I am contemplating buying the Pertronix D134600. Says it comes with a steel gear.

My engine is all original so I assume it needs the cast-iron gear.

I can only find one distributor on the market an MSD that comes with a cast-iron gear.

 

85GTStangGuy

5 Year Member

May 19, 2021

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Jan 23, 2025

#9

• Jan 23, 2025

• #9

MrStangBoise said:

I can only find one distributor on the market an MSD that comes with a cast-iron gear.

Click to expand...

Have you looked at RockAuto? They're showing 6 distributors (2 out of stock though) for your year and engine.

1966 FORD MUSTANG 4.7L 289cid V8 Distributor | Shop Now at RockAuto

Ignition Parts and More for Your 1966 FORD MUSTANG at Reliably Low Prices. Fast Online Catalog. DIY-Easy. Your Choice of Quality. Full Manufacturer Warranty.

www.rockauto.com

 

LILCBRA

I wish I didn't have all of these balls in the air

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#10

• Jan 23, 2025

• #10

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/pnx-d134600?cm_mmc=ppc-google-_-search-_-brands-_-keyword&gclid=Cj0KCQiA7se8BhCAARIsAKnF3rwRB69HCK6as6sqHWb3rl-rDjQ10eh70HUiOD6CCkpj86wAiL-CkRkaAoauEALw_wcB

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/msd-85832/make/ford

chrome-extension://oemmndcbldboiebfnladdacbdfmadadm/https://www.trackey.ford.com/download/pdfs/DistributorGearInstallation.pdf

or..... (disclaimer: I didn't listen to the audio, and I saw a couple things that I'd do differently, but this should at least give you an idea of what's involved.)

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PS2bOX4NBZQ




I'd also call Summit and ask about the gear that's on that distributor. I realize it says it's steel, but it could be cast steel and be compatible. They should be able to give you an answer. I listed a gear that should be compatible or they should also point you in the right direction if that gear is incompatible.

 

Last edited: Jan 23, 2025

Realmongo

I prefer to be called "Evil Genius"

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Jan 23, 2025

#11

• Jan 23, 2025

• #11

It might be worth having a look at a melonized-steel gear. Those can be used on either a cast or steel camshaft.