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Would anyone recommend replacing the ignition system on an 1978 Dodge Executive motor home? I have been having problem with no spark and think it may be the ignition system. Would the MSN coil and ECU be a good start? When I bought this the old owner had tons of resistors and and extra ECU inside. So I think he was always having problems. Should I just repair the system or look into replacing the ECU system with a after market product? Any recomentdations?
I had an intermitten problem with no spark on my 76 440-3 and replaced just about everything but the ECU since the previous owner had just replaced the ECU when I bought it. I never knew if what I replaced fixed the problem or if I just happen to jiggle a loose wire somewhere and regained connection. It happened again last week and after rechecking all contenuity and resistance it pointed to the ECU. I replaced it and the motor fired right up. I do not know if the ECU the previous owner bought was defective or if these things just go out regularly, maybe someone else has more insight.
I just went thru a deal with my 1977 Pace arrow with a 440 which totally lost fire. I found a company who manufactures distributors for a 440 (and other engines as well) which utilizes GM HEI for the ignition system. Its a simple 1 wire hook up, and all ignition parts are readily availabe at most part stores acros the US. You can check them out here http://www.ignitionplus.net/products.html Also you can read my post on this board titled "1977 440 Lost Fire"
This is the least expensive, and easiest way Ive found, and works unbelieveable:
http://www.allpar.com/fix/electronic-ignition.html Go down to the bottom where it says "alternative method", then go here: http://home1.gte.net/wgmumaw/Distconv/Distributor%20Conversion.htm There is a very nice wiring diagram at the bottom of the page. I got a HEI module at Advance Auto Parts fo $16.00, a few wire connectors and just a little bit of time and presto changeo my 440 had life again. Later I ordered the distributor I talked about in another post but for a cheap fix, this is awesome.
Good Luck,
Scott
P.S. If you have questions, I can be reached at td2312@excite.com