MGB - Electronic ignition

[seymourski]

I’m looking for a bit of advice and guidance on swapping to electronic ignition on my ‘74 BGT.

The engine was rebuilt before going into storage / being mothballed and a Piper fast road cam was fitted then. Since coming out of retirement I’ve (amongst many other works) replaced the exhaust with a performance manifold and free flow exhaust (from MGOC), added K&N air filters and upgraded to richer carburettor needles.

Next incoming upgrade is a Stage 2 head (finally converting to unleaded fuel!) which is due back next month to be fitted in the new year.

The only thing left on the engine side is the ignition. There seems to be a few alternatives out there and a quick search shows some concerns about the suitability of some systems but the data is a few years old.

Can anyone help steer me in the right direction and offer some good advice and suggestions?

Many thanks

[clutch]

1-2-3 are more expensive than Pertonix and others but it is a good product (no connection). I have put it on an Alfa GT junior and my currently owned 73 BGT. The mechanics who set them both up (marque specialists, who spoke highly of it). No issues and the cars running improved.

[seymourski]

Thanks Clutch. I’m erring towards the 1-2-3 and had a good chat with the tech guys at the MGOC who were very knowledgeable and helpful (and patient to explain the intricacies to a mechanical numpty like me).
I also talked to my local specialist and I’m waiting for their advice.
I didn’t realise there was so much to an ignition system!

[PositronicRay]

Another vote for 123.
Replaces the (probably) knackered dissy, programmable, online support+forums to aid set up.

My only gripe was the unit had to be removed to access the advance curve settings, but at least its easy to time with the built in Led.

I had to get new HT leads too.

If you find a supplier with a rolling road, (like Peter Burgess) they'll probably help with the setup too.

[w824gb3]

I've had the same lumention magnetronic ignition on mine since the mid 1990's when it was my daily driver - so its been incredibly reliable.

If you want any low end torque bin the tubular manifold - they rob more from the low end than you get back at the top end. The standard cast manifold is very good.

[seymourski]

Thanks for the recommendation and advice guys. I will stick with the tubular manifold (for now) as it’s already fitted.

Just have to decide on which ignition system.,,

Cheers

[awooga]

I've got a similar ish set up on my B to yours - stage 2 peter burgess head with a piper 270 cam, peco manifold, MGOC clubsport exhaust, K+Ns. I went for the 1-2-3. Peter Burgess set the map up on his rolling road as it was on a default to a standard 1500 MGA profile! It's been utterly reliable, starts without a problem even when it's been sat in the garage for a month or so and runs beautifully. 122 bhp at the flywheel.

[seymourski]

That's interesting and very helpful, also good to know there is a significant increase in BHP.

Did you opt for the programmable 1-2-3 or the version with the standard curves? The programmable version seems a bit of a faff unless there is a significant advantage.

Seymourski