Marcos Maniacs

I have been trying to find the proper conversion kit for my 1600GT.  I 
want to get rid of the points in the Lucas distributor which are hard 
to adjust because my car has the twin weber set up.  

Have any of the 1600 GT owners converted to one of these kits, and if 
so does your tach still work with the kit?  I have been trying to get 
one of the kits for a while and to date I cannot find a kit that will 
work with the Smiths Tach.

Bob Magnotti

Try Luminition. It works with the Tach.

Garry


>From: "Bob M" <rhdspritemk1@...>
>Reply-To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
>To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
>Subject: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to pointless ignition
>Date: Sun, 13 May 2007 15:07:27 -0000
>
>I have been trying to find the proper conversion kit for my 1600GT.  I
>want to get rid of the points in the Lucas distributor which are hard
>to adjust because my car has the twin weber set up.
>
>Have any of the 1600 GT owners converted to one of these kits, and if
>so does your tach still work with the kit?  I have been trying to get
>one of the kits for a while and to date I cannot find a kit that will
>work with the Smiths Tach.
>
>Bob Magnotti
>
>
>

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--- In MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com, "Bob M" <rhdspritemk1@...> wrote:
>
> I have been trying to find the proper conversion kit for my 1600GT.  
I 
> want to get rid of the points in the Lucas distributor which are hard 
> to adjust because my car has the twin weber set up.  
> 
> Have any of the 1600 GT owners converted to one of these kits, and if 
> so does your tach still work with the kit?  I have been trying to get 
> one of the kits for a while and to date I cannot find a kit that will 
> work with the Smiths Tach.
> 
> Bob Magnotti
>
 dear bob
 luminition kits are these still available? they are the ones to use 
and should work with original smiths rev counter try a rally car 
supplier

On 13 May 2007 Garry Diver wrote:

> Try Luminition. It works with the Tach.

> Garry


>>From: "Bob M" <rhdspritemk1@...>
>>Reply-To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
>>To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
>>Subject: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to pointless ignition
>>Date: Sun, 13 May 2007 15:07:27 -0000
>>
>>I have been trying to find the proper conversion kit for my 1600GT.  I
>>want to get rid of the points in the Lucas distributor which are hard
>>to adjust because my car has the twin weber set up.
>>
>>Have any of the 1600 GT owners converted to one of these kits, and if
>>so does your tach still work with the kit?  I have been trying to get
>>one of the kits for a while and to date I cannot find a kit that will
>>work with the Smiths Tach.

There are different types of Smiths tacho. Some are wired just by 
passing the LT coil wire (either side) through an induction loop, 
while others require a direct connection to the contact breaker side 
of the coil.

However, whilst Lumention should work with both types, I would 
actually recomment the Petronics Ignitor (marketed by Aldon in the UK) 
which fits inside the Lucas distributor and has a magnetic collar that 
fits around the shaft under the rotor arm. It uses the Hall effect 
rather than an optical sensor.

-- 
 _
|_|. _   Richard Porter               http://www.minijem.plus.com/
|\_||_                                mailto:ricp@...

Hi Bob, I concur with Gary. I ve had a Luminition system in my 3 litre Volvo for close to 10 years and I ve never had a problem with it. It was a very easy

Hi Richard, I originally had a Petronics system in my car but it failed after only a couple of years. I bought the system in England a long time ago. That was

On 14 May 2007 Paul Dransfield wrote:

> Hi Richard, I originally had a Petronics system in my car but it failed
> after only a couple of years. I bought the system in England a long time
> ago. That was when I thought I'd switched to Lumenition.

I think it's a matter of luck. I've had several Lumention Optronic 
kits and one of them failed. I also had an Ignitor fail when it was 
quite new and Mini Spares exchanged it. Since then I've had no further 
problems. I'm now running an Aldon Yellow dizzy with an Ignitor on the 
Mini Marcos.

Richard

-- 
 _
|_|. _   Richard Porter               http://www.minijem.plus.com/
|\_||_                                mailto:ricp@...

Without removing the manifold and carburetors I looked
at the Distributor this morning and the only numbers I
can see on it are 41882 A  59D4

Are these the numbers I need to determine which kit is
needed for the conversion?

Bob Magnotti

--- Donny Lang <indigo@...> wrote:

> Richard and Paul,
> I too can vouch for the reliability of the Crane
> ignition systems. I've had a Crane XR 700 in my TR8
> for over 12 years and it has been absolutely
> flawless. That system replaced a Pertrinix system
> that lasted less than a week. I've used the
> Luminition system in a few cars for
> friend/customers, but they have not lasted as long
> as the Crane ignitions, typically only a couple
> years. To date, I have never had a failure of a
> Crane XR 700 or 7000 out of nearly a dozen installed
> on various vehicles. The only ignition that
> surpasses the Crane for reliability is a Piranah
> system I put on my Dad's BMW 2002 back in 1977. I
> still have the car and it will sometimes still start
> by just turning the ignition on- no starter! You can
> hear the spark plugs zapping in the cylinder. I
> haven't seen another one of these is close to 25
> years.
> -Donny  
>   ----- Original Message ----- 
>   From: Paul Dransfield 
>   To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com 
>   Sent: Monday, May 14, 2007 11:14 AM
>   Subject: RE: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to
> pointless ignition
> 
> 
> 
>   Hi Richard,
> 
>   I originally had a Petronics system in my car but
> it failed after only a couple of years. I bought the
> system in England a long time ago. That was when I
> thought I'd switched to Lumenition. Just goes to
> show how l trouble free my ignition systems has been
> over the last ten years because I just went to
> double check my installation on the car and realized
> I had intended to install a Lumenition system but
> opted for a Crame Cams XR700 system instead. That's
> the system I've had for 10 years without a single
> glitch. It's been so long since I installed it, I'd
> forgotten what system I actually had. I'm sorry for
> the previous misleading info but at least I have it
> right now. 
> 
>   For the information of any 3 litre Volvo owners, I
> don't have the standard Volvo 160 distributor
> because my car has a high performance engine putting
> out 235 bhp and the distributor which came with it
> doesn't have vacuum connections. It's much larger
> than the standard one because the internal
> components are more substantial. 
> 
>   However, Crane Cams have an XR700 universal
> installation kit to fit any 4, 6 or 8 cylinder
> distributor. Just go to this page on their website -
>
http://www.cranecams.com/?show=browseParts&lvl=3&prt=182
> - where they list the various manufacturers. For
> Ford, they list products for applications as far
> back as 1960. I'm sure the have something for any of
> the Marcos Ford or Volvo engines.
> 
>   Regards,
> 
>   Paul Dransfield
>   3 litre Volvo
> 
>     ----- Original Message -----
>     From: "Richard Porter" 
>     To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
>     Subject: RE: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to
> pointless ignition
>     Date: Mon, 14 May 2007 10:53:45 +0100
> 
> 
>     On 13 May 2007 Garry Diver wrote:
> 
>     > Try Luminition. It works with the Tach.
> 
>     > Garry
> 
>     >>From: "Bob M" <rhdspritemk1@...>
>     >>Reply-To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
>     >>To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
>     >>Subject: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to
> pointless ignition
>     >>Date: Sun, 13 May 2007 15:07:27 -0000
>     >>
>     >>I have been trying to find the proper
> conversion kit for my 1600GT. I
>     >>want to get rid of the points in the Lucas
> distributor which are hard
>     >>to adjust because my car has the twin weber
> set up.
>     >>
>     >>Have any of the 1600 GT owners converted to
> one of these kits, and if
>     >>so does your tach still work with the kit? I
> have been trying to get
>     >>one of the kits for a while and to date I
> cannot find a kit that will
>     >>work with the Smiths Tach.
> 
>     There are different types of Smiths tacho. Some
> are wired just by 
>     passing the LT coil wire (either side) through
> an induction loop, 
>     while others require a direct connection to the
> contact breaker side 
>     of the coil.
> 
>     However, whilst Lumention should work with both
> types, I would 
>     actually recomment the Petronics Ignitor
> (marketed by Aldon in the UK) 
>     which fits inside the Lucas distributor and has
> a magnetic collar that 
>     fits around the shaft under the rotor arm. It
> uses the Hall effect 
>     rather than an optical sensor.
> 
>     -- 
>     _
>     |_|. _ Richard Porter
> http://www.minijem.plus.com/
>     |\_||_ mailto:ricp@...
> 
> 
> 
>   -- 
>    
> 
> 
>    
> 



       
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Last year was a good year for seeing record numbers of
Marcos cars in SW Virginia.  Michael Crews and I broke
the record by displaying 2 Marcos cars at this annual
event.

This is a two day event here in Roanoke Virginia,
which is in the Blue Ridge Mountains of South Western
VA.  This event draws well over a thousand hot rods,
muscle cars, dragsters, sports cars and exotic
automobiles.  Last year I hosted the pre-show sports
car gathering and cookout.  I plan on doing the same
this year.  The collection of sports cars included,
Marcos, Austin Healey, MG, Jaguar, Vipers, TVR and
Vettes.

There may be three Marcos cars here this year, my wood
frame, Michael's 3 liter and possibly a V-8 powered
car.

Please contact me for more details if you think you
will be in the area on June 29th and 30th.  This is a
big event here in SW Virginia and it is getting bigger
every year.

Bob Magnotti


 
____________________________________________________________________________________
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Have a HUGE year through Yahoo! Small Business.
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On 15 May 2007 Bob Magnotti wrote:

> Without removing the manifold and carburetors I looked
> at the Distributor this morning and the only numbers I
> can see on it are 41882 A  59D4

> Are these the numbers I need to determine which kit is
> needed for the conversion?

Yes. You have a Lucas 59D4 distributor (4-cyl, negative earth).
The Aldon Ignitor code is 4-LU243 (same for Pertronix) - see
http://www.vintageperformance.com/retrorockets/lucas.htm
This was used on 998 Mini and Metro A+ engines from 1974 on.

The Lumenition Magnetronic code is MTK007.
The Lumenition Optronic fitting kit is FK117.

-- 
 _
|_|. _   Richard Porter               http://www.minijem.plus.com/
|\_||_                                mailto:ricp@...

The 59D4 is a Lucas Distributor.  It accepts LU243 Pertronix Ignitor.  We
sell Ignitors and stock that part.  We have always had good fortune with the
product.  We have never had any conflicts with Smiths Tachometers using the
product since the tach receives its pulses from the coil.

Previously, we sold Lumenition for years.  We were happy with that product
too.  However, we had too many delays in receiving orders and the price was
almost twice that of the Ignitor, which although I always believe in the
axiom "British parts for British cars", is a difficult position to justify
to customers that just want things to work right.

If I can help, let me know.

-----Original Message-----
From: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com [mailto:MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com]On
Behalf Of Richard Porter
Sent: Tuesday, May 15, 2007 4:14 PM
To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to pointless ignition

On 15 May 2007 Bob Magnotti wrote:

> Without removing the manifold and carburetors I looked
> at the Distributor this morning and the only numbers I
> can see on it are 41882 A  59D4

> Are these the numbers I need to determine which kit is
> needed for the conversion?

Yes. You have a Lucas 59D4 distributor (4-cyl, negative earth).
The Aldon Ignitor code is 4-LU243 (same for Pertronix) - see
http://www.vintageperformance.com/retrorockets/lucas.htm
This was used on 998 Mini and Metro A+ engines from 1974 on.

The Lumenition Magnetronic code is MTK007.
The Lumenition Optronic fitting kit is FK117.

--
 _
|_|. _   Richard Porter               http://www.minijem.plus.com/
|\_||_                                mailto:ricp@...



Yahoo! Groups Links

Richard,

Thanks, that is exactly what I needed to know.  I am
upgrading the radiator, ignition and carbs on my car. 
Trying to get it ready for a trip to Watkins Glenn,
NY.  Going to have a chance to take the car on the
track at the Vintage CanAm in September.

Really do not want to be fooling around with fine
tuning points at that time.  Now all I need to do is
decide between Illumination, Ignitor or Crane.

Thanks again for all the information.

Bob Magnotti
 
--- Richard Porter <ricp@...> wrote:

> On 15 May 2007 Bob Magnotti wrote:
> 
> > Without removing the manifold and carburetors I
> looked
> > at the Distributor this morning and the only
> numbers I
> > can see on it are 41882 A  59D4
> 
> > Are these the numbers I need to determine which
> kit is
> > needed for the conversion?
> 
> Yes. You have a Lucas 59D4 distributor (4-cyl,
> negative earth).
> The Aldon Ignitor code is 4-LU243 (same for
> Pertronix) - see
>
http://www.vintageperformance.com/retrorockets/lucas.htm
> This was used on 998 Mini and Metro A+ engines from
> 1974 on.
> 
> The Lumenition Magnetronic code is MTK007.
> The Lumenition Optronic fitting kit is FK117.
> 
> -- 
>  _
> |_|. _   Richard Porter              
> http://www.minijem.plus.com/
> |\_||_                               
> mailto:ricp@...
> 



       
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Bob,

Thanks for your input  - now I am down to the
Pertronix Ignitor or the Crane.  Not sure which kit is
easier to install but the Crane system is available 
through the local hot rod shops.  Please tell me what
the Ignitor kit cost is and where is your shop
located?

Bob Magotti

--- Bob DeShane - Little Britain Motor Company
<lbmc@...> wrote:

> The 59D4 is a Lucas Distributor.  It accepts LU243
> Pertronix Ignitor.  We
> sell Ignitors and stock that part.  We have always
> had good fortune with the
> product.  We have never had any conflicts with
> Smiths Tachometers using the
> product since the tach receives its pulses from the
> coil.
> 
> Previously, we sold Lumenition for years.  We were
> happy with that product
> too.  However, we had too many delays in receiving
> orders and the price was
> almost twice that of the Ignitor, which although I
> always believe in the
> axiom "British parts for British cars", is a
> difficult position to justify
> to customers that just want things to work right.
> 
> If I can help, let me know.
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com]On
> Behalf Of Richard Porter
> Sent: Tuesday, May 15, 2007 4:14 PM
> To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to pointless
> ignition
> 
> On 15 May 2007 Bob Magnotti wrote:
> 
> > Without removing the manifold and carburetors I
> looked
> > at the Distributor this morning and the only
> numbers I
> > can see on it are 41882 A  59D4
> 
> > Are these the numbers I need to determine which
> kit is
> > needed for the conversion?
> 
> Yes. You have a Lucas 59D4 distributor (4-cyl,
> negative earth).
> The Aldon Ignitor code is 4-LU243 (same for
> Pertronix) - see
>
http://www.vintageperformance.com/retrorockets/lucas.htm
> This was used on 998 Mini and Metro A+ engines from
> 1974 on.
> 
> The Lumenition Magnetronic code is MTK007.
> The Lumenition Optronic fitting kit is FK117.
> 
> --
>  _
> |_|. _   Richard Porter              
> http://www.minijem.plus.com/
> |\_||_                               
> mailto:ricp@...
> 
> 
> 
> Yahoo! Groups Links
> 
> 
> 
> 



 
____________________________________________________________________________________
Don't get soaked.  Take a quick peak at the forecast
with the Yahoo! Search weather shortcut.
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Bob, the retail on the LU243 is $163.28 CDN (146.95US).    We are in
Lindsay, Ontario about 80 miles North East of Toronto in the Kawartha Lakes
area - great sports car country and just 20 minutes from Mosport).   What
model of Marcos/engine do you have?
I just read your post to Richard Porter about The Glen in September.  That
is a great event with super atmosphere.  I've raced my '64 Cooper S the at
the Zippo and really had as much fun in the off-track carrying on as the
racing.  The lapping of the "Olde Circuit" is just fabulous.

-----Original Message-----
From: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com [mailto:MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com]On
Behalf Of Bob Magnotti
Sent: Tuesday, May 15, 2007 9:52 PM
To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to pointless ignition

Bob,

Thanks for your input  - now I am down to the
Pertronix Ignitor or the Crane.  Not sure which kit is
easier to install but the Crane system is available
through the local hot rod shops.  Please tell me what
the Ignitor kit cost is and where is your shop
located?

Bob Magotti

--- Bob DeShane - Little Britain Motor Company
<lbmc@...> wrote:

> The 59D4 is a Lucas Distributor.  It accepts LU243
> Pertronix Ignitor.  We
> sell Ignitors and stock that part.  We have always
> had good fortune with the
> product.  We have never had any conflicts with
> Smiths Tachometers using the
> product since the tach receives its pulses from the
> coil.
>
> Previously, we sold Lumenition for years.  We were
> happy with that product
> too.  However, we had too many delays in receiving
> orders and the price was
> almost twice that of the Ignitor, which although I
> always believe in the
> axiom "British parts for British cars", is a
> difficult position to justify
> to customers that just want things to work right.
>
> If I can help, let me know.
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com]On
> Behalf Of Richard Porter
> Sent: Tuesday, May 15, 2007 4:14 PM
> To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to pointless
> ignition
>
> On 15 May 2007 Bob Magnotti wrote:
>
> > Without removing the manifold and carburetors I
> looked
> > at the Distributor this morning and the only
> numbers I
> > can see on it are 41882 A  59D4
>
> > Are these the numbers I need to determine which
> kit is
> > needed for the conversion?
>
> Yes. You have a Lucas 59D4 distributor (4-cyl,
> negative earth).
> The Aldon Ignitor code is 4-LU243 (same for
> Pertronix) - see
>
http://www.vintageperformance.com/retrorockets/lucas.htm
> This was used on 998 Mini and Metro A+ engines from
> 1974 on.
>
> The Lumenition Magnetronic code is MTK007.
> The Lumenition Optronic fitting kit is FK117.
>
> --
>  _
> |_|. _   Richard Porter
> http://www.minijem.plus.com/
> |\_||_
> mailto:ricp@...
>
>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>




____________________________________________________________________________
________
Don't get soaked.  Take a quick peak at the forecast
with the Yahoo! Search weather shortcut.
http://tools.search.yahoo.com/shortcuts/#loc_weather



Yahoo! Groups Links

Bob,

My car has a 1600 crossflow that has beem modified to
1700cc by Vulcan Engeneering.  It has the twin Weber
40 carbs on it and that is the reason for my wanting
to upgrade to the electronic system.  I have decided
to go with the Crane 700 system because it is
available locally at a price of $94.00.

I have also had a new custom radiator made for the car
which solved several other problems.  I should be able
to finally run the engine flat without watching the
temp gauge beat the tach to redline.

I am really excited about the Glen trip in September. 
I have not been to Watkins Glen since the mid 70's
when I raced my Bugeye Sprite in H-Production. 
Watkins Glenn is one of the great tracks to be at and
this event should be outstanding.  Maybe other Marcos
owners could make the trip.

Thanks for you posts about the electronic ignition
systems.

Bob Magotti 

 
--- Bob DeShane - Little Britain Motor Company
<lbmc@...> wrote:

> Bob, the retail on the LU243 is $163.28 CDN
> (146.95US).    We are in
> Lindsay, Ontario about 80 miles North East of
> Toronto in the Kawartha Lakes
> area - great sports car country and just 20 minutes
> from Mosport).   What
> model of Marcos/engine do you have?
> I just read your post to Richard Porter about The
> Glen in September.  That
> is a great event with super atmosphere.  I've raced
> my '64 Cooper S the at
> the Zippo and really had as much fun in the
> off-track carrying on as the
> racing.  The lapping of the "Olde Circuit" is just
> fabulous.
> 
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com]On
> Behalf Of Bob Magnotti
> Sent: Tuesday, May 15, 2007 9:52 PM
> To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: RE: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to pointless
> ignition
> 
> Bob,
> 
> Thanks for your input  - now I am down to the
> Pertronix Ignitor or the Crane.  Not sure which kit
> is
> easier to install but the Crane system is available
> through the local hot rod shops.  Please tell me
> what
> the Ignitor kit cost is and where is your shop
> located?
> 
> Bob Magotti
> 
> --- Bob DeShane - Little Britain Motor Company
> <lbmc@...> wrote:
> 
> > The 59D4 is a Lucas Distributor.  It accepts LU243
> > Pertronix Ignitor.  We
> > sell Ignitors and stock that part.  We have always
> > had good fortune with the
> > product.  We have never had any conflicts with
> > Smiths Tachometers using the
> > product since the tach receives its pulses from
> the
> > coil.
> >
> > Previously, we sold Lumenition for years.  We were
> > happy with that product
> > too.  However, we had too many delays in receiving
> > orders and the price was
> > almost twice that of the Ignitor, which although I
> > always believe in the
> > axiom "British parts for British cars", is a
> > difficult position to justify
> > to customers that just want things to work right.
> >
> > If I can help, let me know.
> >
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
> > [mailto:MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com]On
> > Behalf Of Richard Porter
> > Sent: Tuesday, May 15, 2007 4:14 PM
> > To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
> > Subject: Re: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to
> pointless
> > ignition
> >
> > On 15 May 2007 Bob Magnotti wrote:
> >
> > > Without removing the manifold and carburetors I
> > looked
> > > at the Distributor this morning and the only
> > numbers I
> > > can see on it are 41882 A  59D4
> >
> > > Are these the numbers I need to determine which
> > kit is
> > > needed for the conversion?
> >
> > Yes. You have a Lucas 59D4 distributor (4-cyl,
> > negative earth).
> > The Aldon Ignitor code is 4-LU243 (same for
> > Pertronix) - see
> >
>
http://www.vintageperformance.com/retrorockets/lucas.htm
> > This was used on 998 Mini and Metro A+ engines
> from
> > 1974 on.
> >
> > The Lumenition Magnetronic code is MTK007.
> > The Lumenition Optronic fitting kit is FK117.
> >
> > --
> >  _
> > |_|. _   Richard Porter
> > http://www.minijem.plus.com/
> > |\_||_
> > mailto:ricp@...
> >
> >
> >
> > Yahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
> >
> 
> 
> 
> 
>
____________________________________________________________________________
> ________
> Don't get soaked.  Take a quick peak at the forecast
> with the Yahoo! Search weather shortcut.
> http://tools.search.yahoo.com/shortcuts/#loc_weather
> 
> 
> 
> Yahoo! Groups Links
> 
> 
> 
> 



       
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OK Bob.  It is a fact that the electronic systems (Crane and Pertronix) are
cheaper in the US.  I don't know why, but that is a good price.  Good luck
with the Marcos.  I'm not yet sure if I'll be going to The Glen in September
at all, but if I'm not racing the Mini I may take the Mini Marcos down.  If
so, I'll be on the lookout for you.

Cheers!

-----Original Message-----
From: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com [mailto:MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com]On
Behalf Of Bob Magnotti
Sent: Thursday, May 17, 2007 7:12 AM
To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to pointless ignition

Bob,

My car has a 1600 crossflow that has beem modified to
1700cc by Vulcan Engeneering.  It has the twin Weber
40 carbs on it and that is the reason for my wanting
to upgrade to the electronic system.  I have decided
to go with the Crane 700 system because it is
available locally at a price of $94.00.

I have also had a new custom radiator made for the car
which solved several other problems.  I should be able
to finally run the engine flat without watching the
temp gauge beat the tach to redline.

I am really excited about the Glen trip in September.
I have not been to Watkins Glen since the mid 70's
when I raced my Bugeye Sprite in H-Production.
Watkins Glenn is one of the great tracks to be at and
this event should be outstanding.  Maybe other Marcos
owners could make the trip.

Thanks for you posts about the electronic ignition
systems.

Bob Magotti


--- Bob DeShane - Little Britain Motor Company
<lbmc@...> wrote:

> Bob, the retail on the LU243 is $163.28 CDN
> (146.95US).    We are in
> Lindsay, Ontario about 80 miles North East of
> Toronto in the Kawartha Lakes
> area - great sports car country and just 20 minutes
> from Mosport).   What
> model of Marcos/engine do you have?
> I just read your post to Richard Porter about The
> Glen in September.  That
> is a great event with super atmosphere.  I've raced
> my '64 Cooper S the at
> the Zippo and really had as much fun in the
> off-track carrying on as the
> racing.  The lapping of the "Olde Circuit" is just
> fabulous.
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com]On
> Behalf Of Bob Magnotti
> Sent: Tuesday, May 15, 2007 9:52 PM
> To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: RE: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to pointless
> ignition
>
> Bob,
>
> Thanks for your input  - now I am down to the
> Pertronix Ignitor or the Crane.  Not sure which kit
> is
> easier to install but the Crane system is available
> through the local hot rod shops.  Please tell me
> what
> the Ignitor kit cost is and where is your shop
> located?
>
> Bob Magotti
>
> --- Bob DeShane - Little Britain Motor Company
> <lbmc@...> wrote:
>
> > The 59D4 is a Lucas Distributor.  It accepts LU243
> > Pertronix Ignitor.  We
> > sell Ignitors and stock that part.  We have always
> > had good fortune with the
> > product.  We have never had any conflicts with
> > Smiths Tachometers using the
> > product since the tach receives its pulses from
> the
> > coil.
> >
> > Previously, we sold Lumenition for years.  We were
> > happy with that product
> > too.  However, we had too many delays in receiving
> > orders and the price was
> > almost twice that of the Ignitor, which although I
> > always believe in the
> > axiom "British parts for British cars", is a
> > difficult position to justify
> > to customers that just want things to work right.
> >
> > If I can help, let me know.
> >
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
> > [mailto:MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com]On
> > Behalf Of Richard Porter
> > Sent: Tuesday, May 15, 2007 4:14 PM
> > To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
> > Subject: Re: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to
> pointless
> > ignition
> >
> > On 15 May 2007 Bob Magnotti wrote:
> >
> > > Without removing the manifold and carburetors I
> > looked
> > > at the Distributor this morning and the only
> > numbers I
> > > can see on it are 41882 A  59D4
> >
> > > Are these the numbers I need to determine which
> > kit is
> > > needed for the conversion?
> >
> > Yes. You have a Lucas 59D4 distributor (4-cyl,
> > negative earth).
> > The Aldon Ignitor code is 4-LU243 (same for
> > Pertronix) - see
> >
>
http://www.vintageperformance.com/retrorockets/lucas.htm
> > This was used on 998 Mini and Metro A+ engines
> from
> > 1974 on.
> >
> > The Lumenition Magnetronic code is MTK007.
> > The Lumenition Optronic fitting kit is FK117.
> >
> > --
> >  _
> > |_|. _   Richard Porter
> > http://www.minijem.plus.com/
> > |\_||_
> > mailto:ricp@...
> >
> >
> >
> > Yahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
>
>
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> ________
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>
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>




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Donny,

Well I purchased the Crane 700 system and am excited
about the prospects of installing it and getting rid
of the points.

Unfortunately the "stupids" seem to have set in at my
garage and I cannot figure out how to mount the sensor
in the distributor.  As I read the instructions it
says to remove the points and condenser and wiring to
the coil.  It is unclear if I am also supposed to
remove the points mounting plate?  Is the sensor
supposed to mount to the points mounting plate and be
able to move with the advance mechinism?  There does
not seem to be a straighforward way to mount the
sensor so it can be adjusted for the proper timing.

Is the mounting of the sensor an easy bolt in
procedure or am I supposed to fabricate some sort of
Rube Goldberg bracket system to get it mounted?  ...or
am I making this harder than it needs to be?

Any advice would be appreciated.

Bob Magotti


--- Donny Lang <indigo@...> wrote:

> Bob, I can't verify which Crane ignition is needed
> for your distributor , but a "universal" 700-0231
> kit has worked well for conversions in the past.
> Call the Crane tech number at (386) 258-6174 to try
> to confirm your needs. They carry both the XR 700
> and XR 3000 systems. I have always used the less
> expensive XR 700, so can't comment on the pricier
> one. The kits consist of a light beam/shutter wheel
> for under the distributor cap, and an electronics
> box about twice the size of a pack of cigarettes to
> be mounted in the engine compartment. By the way, I
> haven't had problems with tach function when I have
> used these. I hope this helps.      - Donny
>   ----- Original Message ----- 
>   From: Bob Magnotti 
>   To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com 
>   Sent: Tuesday, May 15, 2007 9:24 AM
>   Subject: Re: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to
> pointless ignition
> 
> 
>   Without removing the manifold and carburetors I
> looked
>   at the Distributor this morning and the only
> numbers I
>   can see on it are 41882 A 59D4
> 
>   Are these the numbers I need to determine which
> kit is
>   needed for the conversion?
> 
>   Bob Magnotti
> 
>   --- Donny Lang <indigo@...> wrote:
> 
>   > Richard and Paul,
>   > I too can vouch for the reliability of the Crane
>   > ignition systems. I've had a Crane XR 700 in my
> TR8
>   > for over 12 years and it has been absolutely
>   > flawless. That system replaced a Pertrinix
> system
>   > that lasted less than a week. I've used the
>   > Luminition system in a few cars for
>   > friend/customers, but they have not lasted as
> long
>   > as the Crane ignitions, typically only a couple
>   > years. To date, I have never had a failure of a
>   > Crane XR 700 or 7000 out of nearly a dozen
> installed
>   > on various vehicles. The only ignition that
>   > surpasses the Crane for reliability is a Piranah
>   > system I put on my Dad's BMW 2002 back in 1977.
> I
>   > still have the car and it will sometimes still
> start
>   > by just turning the ignition on- no starter! You
> can
>   > hear the spark plugs zapping in the cylinder. I
>   > haven't seen another one of these is close to 25
>   > years.
>   > -Donny 
>   > ----- Original Message ----- 
>   > From: Paul Dransfield 
>   > To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com 
>   > Sent: Monday, May 14, 2007 11:14 AM
>   > Subject: RE: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to
>   > pointless ignition
>   > 
>   > 
>   > 
>   > Hi Richard,
>   > 
>   > I originally had a Petronics system in my car
> but
>   > it failed after only a couple of years. I bought
> the
>   > system in England a long time ago. That was when
> I
>   > thought I'd switched to Lumenition. Just goes to
>   > show how l trouble free my ignition systems has
> been
>   > over the last ten years because I just went to
>   > double check my installation on the car and
> realized
>   > I had intended to install a Lumenition system
> but
>   > opted for a Crame Cams XR700 system instead.
> That's
>   > the system I've had for 10 years without a
> single
>   > glitch. It's been so long since I installed it,
> I'd
>   > forgotten what system I actually had. I'm sorry
> for
>   > the previous misleading info but at least I have
> it
>   > right now. 
>   > 
>   > For the information of any 3 litre Volvo owners,
> I
>   > don't have the standard Volvo 160 distributor
>   > because my car has a high performance engine
> putting
>   > out 235 bhp and the distributor which came with
> it
>   > doesn't have vacuum connections. It's much
> larger
>   > than the standard one because the internal
>   > components are more substantial. 
>   > 
>   > However, Crane Cams have an XR700 universal
>   > installation kit to fit any 4, 6 or 8 cylinder
>   > distributor. Just go to this page on their
> website -
>   >
>  
>
http://www.cranecams.com/?show=browseParts&lvl=3&prt=182
>   > - where they list the various manufacturers. For
>   > Ford, they list products for applications as far
>   > back as 1960. I'm sure the have something for
> any of
>   > the Marcos Ford or Volvo engines.
>   > 
>   > Regards,
>   > 
>   > Paul Dransfield
>   > 3 litre Volvo
>   > 
>   > ----- Original Message -----
>   > From: "Richard Porter" 
>   > To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
>   > Subject: RE: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to
>   > pointless ignition
>   > Date: Mon, 14 May 2007 10:53:45 +0100
>   > 
>   > 
>   > On 13 May 2007 Garry Diver wrote:
>   > 
>   > > Try Luminition. It works with the Tach.
>   > 
>   > > Garry
>   > 
>   > >>From: "Bob M" <rhdspritemk1@...>
>   > >>Reply-To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
>   > >>To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com
>   > >>Subject: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to
>   > pointless ignition
>   > >>Date: Sun, 13 May 2007 15:07:27 -0000
>   > >>
>   > >>I have been trying to find the proper
>   > conversion kit for my 1600GT. I
>   > >>want to get rid of the points in the Lucas
>   > distributor which are hard
>   > >>to adjust because my car has the twin weber
>   > set up.
>   > >>
>   > >>Have any of the 1600 GT owners converted to
>   > one of these kits, and if
>   > >>so does your tach still work with the kit? I
>   > have been trying to get
>   > >>one of the kits for a while and to date I
>   > cannot find a kit that will
>   > >>work with the Smiths Tach.
>   > 
>   > There are different types of Smiths tacho. Some
>   > are wired just by 
>   > passing the LT coil wire (either side) through
>   > an induction loop, 
>   > while others require a direct connection to the
>   > contact breaker side 
>   > of the coil.
>   > 
>   > However, whilst Lumention should work with both
>   > types, I would 
>   > actually recomment the Petronics Ignitor
>   > (marketed by Aldon in the UK) 
>   > which fits inside the Lucas distributor and has
>   > a magnetic collar that 
>   > fits around the shaft under the rotor arm. It
>   > uses the Hall effect 
>   > rather than an optical sensor.
>   > 
>   > -- 
>   > _
>   > |_|. _ Richard Porter
>   > http://www.minijem.plus.com/
>   > |\_||_ mailto:ricp@...
>   > 
>   > 
>   > 
>   > -- 
>   > 
>   > 
>   > 
>   > 
>   > 
> 
>  
>
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Donny,

Thanks for your description of the install.  In an
earlier life these things were usually simple to me. 
Today I just get a brain freeze and don't seem to
understand these electro/computerized gadgets.  

Back in the 70's when the first high energy capacitive
discharge transistorized ignition system came out I
discovered that they provided no more performance than
a good set of points.  I suffered 2 DNFs in my
H-Production Sprite because of burned transistors.  I
pulled the transistor box out, stuck with the points
and now today I need to learn this stuff again.

I took a few hours today and got all the parts into
the distributor.  Everything seems to be in place and
aligned and timed properly.  At least to the point
where the indicator LED on the control box lights up
showing that the system may be working.  I have not
started the engine yet.

I am still confused as to how the tach is supposed to
be hooked up.  My tach is the type that has the wire
loop from the coil to the tach sensor and back to the
points.  Do not have any points in there  - now what?

Any suggestions?

On a more positive note, I installed the new custom
built radiator in the car today and it fits like a
glove.  The shop that made the radiator happened to
have a new core that was originally purchased for a
V-8 T-Bucket hot rod.  It was never used in the
T-Bucket.  We found a set of upper and lower tanks
from some unknown Triumph model.  The upper tank
seemed to match the contour of the slopped hood line
of the Marcos and they were the same width as my old
radiator.  I am still working on the mounting for the
electric fan and the radiator upgrade will be
complete.

Thanks again for your input,
Bob Magotti


--- Donny Lang <indigo@...> wrote:

> Bob,
> I haven't installed one of these for about 2 years,
> so I pulled out one from an MGB distributor (B43D)
> to take a look at. I usually take the distributor
> out of the engine to make it easier to set up the
> kit. Make a reference mark on the outside of the
> housing at #1 fireing position for setting things up
> later on.
>  
> You do remove the points and condenser with the
> associated wiring. Leave the ground wire if there is
> one though.  Leave the breaker plate intact as you
> use it to mount the light beam module (sensor as you
> refer to it). The small brackets supplied are
> definitely "Rube Goldberg" and if I recall, there
> are several sets depending on which kit you got. I'm
> sure you have all the parts in the kit to install
> it. You will be fitting a couple delicate looking
> brackets together, but they really do work pretty
> well when all assembled.
>  
>  The light beam module (about 1" x 3/4" x 1/2")
> should have a notch/recess at the back (opposite
> side from the light emmitter/sensor) that has three
> screw holes. You will likely only use one of the
> holes (center in the case of the MGB dist). I then
> have two small, frail looking metal brackets with
> about 1" long slots. The one that attaches to the
> light beam module has a right-angle twist. The
> straight slot mounts to the module using one of he
> three screw positions and serves as the up-and-down
> adjustment so that the shutter wheel/slotted disc is
> centered between the upper and lower light emmitters
> when all is assembled. The other end of the twisted
> bracket has an arc-shaped slot that attaches another
> shorter stepped bracket to it.
> 
> This stepped bracket attaches to the breaker plate
> in any hole near the outside perimeter. The arc slot
> of the twisted bracket should follow the
> circumference of the breaker plate about 5/8" above
> the breaker plate.
> 
> Before mounting the module assembly to the breaker
> plate, install the appropriate shutter wheel over
> the points lobe under the stock rotor stub. Measure
> the distance of the shutter wheel above the breaker
> plate, and rough-adjust the brackets for the module
> so the rotor falls between the two light emmitters. 
> 
> Once the adjustment is close, trial-assemble the
> shutter wheel (over the shaft) and module assembly
> to the breaker plate, kind of at the same time if it
> is close-clearanced like mine. Make any adjustments
> to get the shutter wheel centered beween the light
> emmitters, (elevation from the breaker plate), then
> install the stock rotor and rotate the engine (or
> dist. shaft) until it points to #1 fireing position
> (if you marked this position as a reference point
> before you started the installation). Then
> check/adjust the module using the arc slot to align
> any one of slots in the shutter wheel with the light
> emmitters.
>  
> When it all lines up, take it apart to feed the
> wires through the hole in the side of the
> distributor housing (if nessary) and re-assemble. 
> Follow the wiring diagram for the control module and
> it all should work. You will have to use a  timing
> light to set the ignition timing when you start it.
> 
> Sorry for the long-winded proceedure, but I hope
> this helps. Give me a call if you have any other
> questions at (305) 852-0110. Thanks - Donny
>   ----- Original Message ----- 
>   From: Bob Magnotti 
>   To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com 
>   Sent: Saturday, May 19, 2007 5:01 PM
>   Subject: [MarcosManiacs] HELP Conversion to
> pointless ignition
> 
> 
>   Donny,
> 
>   Well I purchased the Crane 700 system and am
> excited
>   about the prospects of installing it and getting
> rid
>   of the points.
> 
>   Unfortunately the "stupids" seem to have set in at
> my
>   garage and I cannot figure out how to mount the
> sensor
>   in the distributor. As I read the instructions it
>   says to remove the points and condenser and wiring
> to
>   the coil. It is unclear if I am also supposed to
>   remove the points mounting plate? Is the sensor
>   supposed to mount to the points mounting plate and
> be
>   able to move with the advance mechinism? There
> does
>   not seem to be a straighforward way to mount the
>   sensor so it can be adjusted for the proper
> timing.
> 
>   Is the mounting of the sensor an easy bolt in
>   procedure or am I supposed to fabricate some sort
> of
>   Rube Goldberg bracket system to get it mounted?
> ...or
>   am I making this harder than it needs to be?
> 
>   Any advice would be appreciated.
> 
>   Bob Magotti
> 
>   --- Donny Lang <indigo@...> wrote:
> 
>   > Bob, I can't verify which Crane ignition is
> needed
>   > for your distributor , but a "universal"
> 700-0231
>   > kit has worked well for conversions in the past.
>   > Call the Crane tech number at (386) 258-6174 to
> try
>   > to confirm your needs. They carry both the XR
> 700
>   > and XR 3000 systems. I have always used the less
>   > expensive XR 700, so can't comment on the
> pricier
>   > one. The kits consist of a light beam/shutter
> wheel
>   > for under the distributor cap, and an
> electronics
>   > box about twice the size of a pack of cigarettes
> to
>   > be mounted in the engine compartment. By the
> way, I
>   > haven't had problems with tach function when I
> have
>   > used these. I hope this helps. - Donny
>   > ----- Original Message ----- 
>   > From: Bob Magnotti 
>   > To: MarcosManiacs@yahoogroups.com 
>   > Sent: Tuesday, May 15, 2007 9:24 AM
>   > Subject: Re: [MarcosManiacs] Conversion to
>   > pointless ignition
>   > 
>   > 
>   > Without removing the manifold and carburetors I
>   > looked
>   > at the Distributor this morning and the only
>   > numbers I
>   > can see on it are 41882 A 59D4
>   > 
>   > Are these the numbers I need to determine which
>   > kit is
>   > needed for the conversion?
>   > 
>   > Bob Magnotti
>   > 
>   > --- Donny Lang <indigo@...> wrote:
>   > 
>   > > Richard and Paul,
>   > > I too can vouch for the reliability of the
> Crane
>   > > ignition systems. I've had a Crane XR 700 in
> my
>   > TR8
>   > > for over 12 years and it has been absolutely
>   > > flawless. That system replaced a Pertrinix
>   > system
>   > > that lasted less than a week. I've used the
>   > > Luminition system in a few cars for
>   > > friend/customers, but they have not lasted as
>   > long
>   > > as the Crane ignitions, typically only a
> couple
>   > > years. To date, I have never had a failure of
> a
>   > > Crane XR 700 or 7000 out of nearly a dozen
>   > installed
>   > > on various vehicles. The only ignition that
>   > > surpasses the Crane for reliability is a
> Piranah
>   > > system I put on my Dad's BMW 2002 back in
> 1977.
>   > I
>   > > still have the car and it will sometimes still
>   > start
>   > > by just turning the ignition on- no starter!
> You
>   > can
>   > > hear the spark plugs zapping in the cylinder.
> I
>   > > haven't seen another one of these is close to
> 25
>   > > years.
>   > > -Donny 
> 
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