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View Full Version : HEI Distributor conversion


oldguy64malibu
04-08-2015, 09:36 AM
I would like to convert to a HEI distributor on my 1964 Chevelle 283. 3 speed manual trans. I had a condenser crap out on a trip (made in China) so would like to get rid of points, condenser, etc. The car is just used for cruising. Can anyone recommend a good reasonably priced HEI unit that installs and pretty much runs right out of the box ?
Thanks for your help, again.

RBeckman
04-08-2015, 11:20 AM
I put a GM HEI on my Chevelle and all I had to do was run a power wire.

oldguy64malibu
04-08-2015, 04:59 PM
Thanks. I'll track down the GM HEI unit.

BillsCamino
04-09-2015, 09:45 AM
Just be sure to get a pre-computer one...it'll have a vacuum advance canister on it.
Easy to find...millions were used.
And like Ric mentioned...be sure to run a full 12 volts to the HEI...don't use the original points power supply. That wire has a resistance built in.

Ms Grumpy
04-11-2015, 07:45 PM
Definately listen to Bill and Ric. I love the HEI but when it was installed my brother used a different wire also.

oldguy64malibu
04-13-2015, 05:20 PM
Thank you to Bill and Ric for HEI info. I'm sure you prevented a problem that I would have stumbled into.

Hank70SS
04-13-2015, 06:33 PM
You'll should have 2 wires running to your coil now. One is the resistance wire going to the bulkhead connector on the firewall. That provides a lower voltage to the coil while the engine is running. The other wire, yellow I believe, goes to the starter, it provides a full 12v to the coil while cranking the engine.

I removed the resistance wire from the bulkhead connector. Got a new lug to plug in and ran a new wire from there. I've heard that connector does not provide power during cranking on all year Chevelles. If yours does than remove the yellow wire, set the timing and you're done. If it doesn't then you need to find a 12v source that is active while starting or marry the yellow wire to the source.

Hope that wasn't confusing, if so send me a PM. We can talk on the phone if necessary. It's a simple swap once you understand what's needed.