Does an HEI distributor need to be grounded?

Does an HEI distributor need to be grounded?

When you have an external coil (hei), ground wire in cap is not needed.

When did GM start using HEI distributors?

General Motor’s HEI distributors are still going strong. GM’s High energy ignition (HEI), designed and built by the Delco-Remy division of General Motors starting in 1974. These units were used on all engines in 1975 through the mid-1980s, with several different variations over the years.

How does HEI distributor work?

The HEI distributor is still an inductive-discharge ignition, but exchanges points for an electronic device called a module. Since this system produces more voltage and amperage output than a point-type ignition, it requires a larger-diameter cap to prevent voltage crossfire inside the distributor cap.

What wires go to an HEI distributor?

Connect the primary wires to the HEI distributor, via a plug that snaps into the distributor cap. There are two wires in the plug: the hot wire and the tachometer wire. If you are updating from an old distributor, splice the old distributor hot wire to the hot wire of the HEI primary plug.

How do you test a HEI distributor?

To test the resistance of the coil, remove the coil cover so you can see the red and yellow wire. Using the multi-meter set on the ohms setting, touch the positive lead to the red wire terminal and the negative lead to the yellow wire terminal. Testing the secondary circuit of the coil.

How do you troubleshoot a distributor?

How to Tell If You Have a Faulty Distributor

1. Check the Distributer Cap. Often the distributor cap is suspect.
2. Check the Contact Points. Inspect the condenser; the engine will not function if it is broken.
3. Check the Arc.
4. Tools and Materials.
5. Crank the Engine.
6. Remove the Old Distributor.
7. Set the Point Gap.
8. Set the Distributor.

How do you adjust the vacuum advance on a HEI distributor?

You can easily adjust the vacuum advance of the Street Fire Distributor. Insert a 3/32″ Allen wrench in the canister inlet and turn the adjustment screw clockwise until it is all the way in (Figure 2). Counter clockwise reduces the advance, clockwise increases.

When did GM stop using HEI?

High energy ignition, also known as H.E.I., is an electronic ignition system designed by the Delco-Remy Division of General Motors. It was used on all GM vehicles, at least in the North American market, from 1975 through the mid-1980s.