MSD Ignition with points query

[Allan Robinson]

Hi All,
Can anyone help me with some quality information?
I have a Mallory duel point distributor fitted to my RV8 engine, unfortunately, I have been plagued with condenser problems. I have now fitted an MSD AL6 ignition system, however, retained the distributor with one set of points removed. My query is this: - As the points purely act as a trigger for the MSD system, can I safely run without a condenser?

Thanks in advance
Allan

[eliot]

I would of thought so. Its there to stop the spark jumping the gap when the points open.
Those Mallory DP dizzy's seem to have a good appetite for condensors.

[Steve_D]

The condenser deals with the highish currents use with points and coil. With the MSD the points are just acting as a switch or trigger so will not need the condenser.
In time you may find you have to clean the points. This is because there is little current passing through them and they just get dirty.

Steve

[tr7v8]

The first condensor on mine failed, a problem according to the Mallory site which gives ways to cure it, also their was a duff batch. Although I carry a pukka Mallory spare, the AA fitted one that came "from the floor of me van" which is off something Jap & that's been on for the 3 years since the first failed at 3 months old. No problems since, it doesn't have to be a Mallory one.

[Allan Robinson]

Thanks guys,

I had the same view as you, however, didn’t know if the MSD would suffer without a condenser. I eventually found a MDS technical help line number in Texas. They said that they actually recommend running without a condenser. It’s a pity they don’t say so in the instructions!

Thanks again
Allan