V8 ignition amplifiers

[The Hatter]

I have reason to suspect my 350i ignition amplifier is misbehaving, plus it's an intermotor branded part, so I want to replace it.

I see that there's both 'two pin' and 'three pin' variants out there; the 'three pin' is cheaper and according to some people you can use these on the earlier 'two pin' systems as the extra pin is only an earth.

I can also see some people selling 'three pin' to 'two pin' converter cables - surely that's just not connecting the third 'earth' pin? I can't see the point of one of these converter cables, unless anyone knows otherwise...

And another thing... what's this 'heat conducting paste' lark that you're supposed to put on the mating face? surely that'll be long dried out on most cars - could the job be done with coppaslip?

Anyone have any knowledge/experience on this?

[maston]

Martin,
I'm fairly sure I have a spare two pin ignition amplifier from my old 350i.
I'll have a look this weekend.
Did you use the AFM I sold you and if so any difference ?
Regards
Ian

[adam quantrill]

You need the thermal paste so the thing doesn't overheat and start getting unreliable.

You can get it from Maplin's if you have one nearby, Get a small tube because you only need a little smear. It's designed for the job, unlike Copaslip.

[SLB]

I replaced mine with a three pin and a converter cable. The cable came with the right crimps to be able to connect it all together without cutting anything . I didn't use any paste though but it's been fine for a couple of years now.