I have a 1982 Chevy big block 454ci in my 1966 with 10.1 compression using a GM 427 crank that makes 433ci. The heads are Corvette oval ports from a 390hp engine along with a Comp Extreme Energy cam, XE 274H-10, part number 11-246-3. I need to find the best distributor options. I have a GM distributor # 1112093 3M18 with vacuum # B33. Should I just install a PerTronix Igniter conversion?

F. T.

I looked up this distributor and discovered it is basically a point type aluminum housing small or big block V8 distributor. So it is a basic point type distributor and it will be compatible with your big block.

I agree that an electronic point conversion system like the PerTronix that you mentioned is an excellent idea. After all, this is the 21st Century. There’s really no excuse for running an engine with points when you can take advantage of improved timing accuracy and reduced maintenance with a fully electronic distributor.

The conversion is easy and can be accomplished without removing the distributor from the engine. However, it will be much easier to perform this task with the distributor on the workbench. There are several PerTronix kit options, so there are plenty of ways to go here.

OnAllCylinder’s contributor Wayne Scraba did a full distributor retrofit using a PerTronix Ignitor III module. You can read that story here. 

Plus, this offers you the advantage of ensuring that both the mechanical and vacuum advance systems both are operating smoothly. These are both critical to ensuring that the engine runs at its best.

I would suggest an initial timing of around 12 to 14 degrees but you also need to check total mechanical advance which should be around 20 degrees which will produce 32 to 36 degrees total advance. Of course the rate of mechanical advance is also important and should also be tied into how much vacuum advance is supplied by the vacuum canister.

It’s beyond the scope of this answer to get into in detail, but working with these systems will have a major impact on how your engine runs.

BBC Distributor Upgrade Parts List

  • PerTronix Ignitor conversion – PNX-1181LS
  • PerTronix  Ignitor III conversion kit – PNX-71181
  • PerTronix Ignitor conversion kit – PNX-91181
electronic distributor conversion kit
This is the PerTronix Ignitor III conversion kit. It’s a little more money but does offer some nice features including adaptive dwell control that adds ignition power to the system at higher engine speeds to recharge the coil when points tend to offer diminished ignition voltage. (Image/Summit Racing)
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Author: Jeff Smith

Jeff Smith has had a passion for cars since he began working at his grandfather's gas station at the age 10. After graduating from Iowa State University with a journalism degree in 1978, he combined his two passions: cars and writing. Smith began writing for Car Craft magazine in 1979 and became editor in 1984. In 1987, he assumed the role of editor for Hot Rod magazine before returning to his first love of writing technical stories. Since 2003, Jeff has held various positions at Car Craft (including editor), has written books on small block Chevy performance, and even cultivated an impressive collection of 1965 and 1966 Chevelles. Now he serves as a regular contributor to OnAllCylinders.