Pertronix D71001 HEI III Distributor Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Pertronix D71001 HEI III Distributor. This high-energy ignition system is designed for Chevy Small Block (SB) and Big Block (BB) engines, offering enhanced performance and reliability.

The Pertronix HEI III distributor features a special high-energy module and coil combination, capable of operating beyond 7500 RPM without misfires, thanks to multi-spark discharge and an adjustable digital rev limiter. It delivers significantly more energy to the spark plugs compared to stock HEI units, promoting more efficient combustion.

2. Safety Information

WARNING:

• Always disconnect the vehicle's battery before performing any work on the ignition system to prevent electrical shock or damage to components.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and gloves, during installation and maintenance.
• Ignition systems operate at high voltages. Exercise extreme caution.
• This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm (Proposition 65 warning).
• Ensure the engine is cool before working on any components to avoid burns.

Refer to your vehicle's service manual for specific safety procedures related to your vehicle model.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present before beginning installation:

• Pertronix D71001 HEI III Distributor
• Instruction Sheet

If any items are missing or damaged, contact your retailer or Pertronix customer support immediately.

4. Setup and Installation

Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance. If you are unsure about any step, consult a qualified automotive technician.

4.1 Pre-Installation Steps

1. Disconnect Battery: Disconnect the negative terminal of the vehicle's battery.
2. Mark Rotor Position: Before removing the old distributor, rotate the engine until the rotor points to the #1 cylinder's spark plug wire terminal on the distributor cap. Mark the position of the rotor and the distributor housing relative to the engine block. This will aid in proper timing during installation.
3. Remove Old Distributor: Disconnect all wires and vacuum lines from the old distributor. Remove the distributor hold-down clamp and carefully lift the old distributor out of the engine. Note the orientation of the gear as it disengages from the camshaft.

4.2 Distributor Installation

The Pertronix D71001 HEI III Distributor is shown below:

Image 1: Pertronix D71001 HEI III Distributor. This image displays the complete distributor unit with its red cap, vacuum advance canister, and drive gear.

4. Install New Distributor: Align the new Pertronix HEI III distributor with the marks made during removal. Ensure the drive gear meshes correctly with the camshaft gear. The rotor should point to the #1 cylinder terminal. You may need to slightly rotate the oil pump shaft with a screwdriver to allow the distributor to fully seat.
5. Secure Distributor: Install the distributor hold-down clamp and tighten it sufficiently to hold the distributor in place, but allow for slight rotation for timing adjustments.
6. Wiring Connections: Connect the necessary wiring to the HEI III distributor. Refer to the included instruction sheet for specific wiring diagrams. Typically, this involves a switched 12-volt power source.
7. Vacuum Advance: Connect the vacuum line to the adjustable vacuum advance canister.
8. Spark Plug Wires: Install the spark plug wires onto the distributor cap, ensuring they are routed correctly according to the engine's firing order.
9. Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative terminal of the vehicle's battery.

4.3 Initial Timing Adjustment

After installation, the engine's timing must be set correctly.

1. Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature.
2. Using a timing light, check the initial timing.
3. Loosen the distributor hold-down clamp and slowly rotate the distributor housing until the timing mark aligns with the specified initial timing for your engine (refer to your vehicle's service manual).
4. Tighten the distributor hold-down clamp securely.
5. Re-check the timing to ensure it has not shifted.

5. Operating Instructions

The Pertronix D71001 HEI III Distributor is designed for high-performance operation.

• Multi-Spark Discharge: The HEI III module provides multiple sparks through the redline RPM range, ensuring complete combustion and improved performance.
• Adjustable Digital Rev Limiter: The integrated digital rev limiter can be adjusted to prevent engine over-revving. Consult the included instruction sheet for details on setting the rev limiter.
• High RPM Capability: This distributor is engineered to operate reliably beyond 7500 RPM, significantly higher than many stock HEI units.
• Vacuum Advance: The adjustable vacuum advance canister helps optimize timing for various engine loads, improving fuel efficiency and throttle response.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and performance of your distributor.

• Distributor Cap and Rotor: Periodically inspect the distributor cap and rotor for cracks, carbon tracking, or excessive wear. Replace as needed.
• Spark Plug Wires: Check spark plug wires for damage, fraying, or poor connections. Ensure they are securely seated.
• Spark Plugs: Inspect and replace spark plugs according to your engine manufacturer's recommendations. Wider plug gaps may be used with this distributor for increased flame kernel growth; consult a professional for optimal gap settings.
• Wiring Connections: Ensure all electrical connections to the distributor are clean, tight, and free from corrosion.
• Vacuum Lines: Check vacuum lines for cracks, leaks, or disconnections.

7. Troubleshooting

If you experience issues with your ignition system, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

• Engine Cranks but Won't Start:
  • Check all wiring connections to the distributor for looseness or incorrect routing.
  • Verify that the distributor is receiving 12-volt power.
  • Ensure the rotor is pointing to the #1 cylinder at Top Dead Center (TDC) on the compression stroke.
  • Inspect the distributor cap and rotor for damage.
• Engine Misfires or Runs Rough:
  • Check spark plug wires for proper connection and damage.
  • Inspect spark plugs for fouling or incorrect gap.
  • Verify engine timing is set correctly.
  • Check for vacuum leaks in the vacuum advance line.
• Engine Over-revving or Hitting Rev Limiter Prematurely:
  • Consult the instruction sheet for proper adjustment of the digital rev limiter.

For persistent issues, contact Pertronix technical support or a certified mechanic.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

The Pertronix D71001 HEI III Distributor comes with a Limited One Year Warranty. For specific terms and conditions of the warranty, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Pertronix website.

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact Pertronix customer support directly. Ensure you have your product model number (D71001) and purchase information available when contacting support.

You can find more information and contact details on the official Pertronix website: www.pertronix.com