My ignition module blues...

I have an '85 E-150 with a 351 engine, and a problematical ignition module. The used vehicle came with a Wells replacement unit when I purchased it, which later became intermittent, so I replaced it with a Borg Warner, that just up and died just 6 weeks later.

What, if anything, can I put in there that is likely to keep working long-term? Are genuine FORD units any better, or are they just more "Fix Or Replace daily" devices? Is there some sort of high-performance device available? This is worse than having one of the old mechanical distributors! At least they would work for years, and if they stopped working, they could usually be put back into action without having to wait for oddball electronic parts to be shipped from Timbuktu.

My ignition module is a bit bigger than a pack of cigarettes, seems to be potted in some sort of soft black plastic stuff, has a blue connector, and is mounted up forward, where it doesn't get particularly hot. Further, the intermittent unit does NOT seem to be temperature dependent, as it is just as bad when cold as it is when hot. Hence, while this make/model/year is on the TFI lawsuit list, it doesn't seem to be having the TFI heat-related problems.

Thanks in advance for any thoughts you might have?

Steve

Reply to
Steve
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Bout all I can add is to make sure *all* module connectors, plugs, etc are very clean, with no corrosion. Add some dialectric grease, or whatever to the plugs before you plug them together. Many intermittant ignition module problems I've seen were actually bad connections in the wiring or connectors. The voltage can be fairly low on some wires, and it doesn't take a whole lot of resistance to muck up the works. MK

Reply to
Mark Keith

I had a similar problem on my '81. Because it was out of warranty, I bought a replacement unit, Wells brand also. It also started acting wrong. Went back to the unit that came with the truck and everything was fine for a very long time. Eventually the OEM part did go out. It had gotten so hot that the potting material melted. I re-installed the Wells unit, only this time I put some spacers underneath....to get air-flow under the piece. It's been ok ever since! Maybe doing that little thing, along with making sure the connections are clean and sealed good will help you too.

Dave S(Texas)

Reply to
putt

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