Electronic Ignition?

[Series 1]

Been having intermittent problems with engine, seemingly ignition related. New points, balanced carbs checked timing (was at about 20deg before tdc!) but found vacuum advance seized in disributor. Probably explains reluctance to rev above 3700rpm at moment. Has anyone fitted 123 Ignition or similar? Heard they are good (from dealer!) but wanted practical advice and any tips on fitting or similar options. I realise that electronic ignition is a good modification, just which system? Oh, it's a 3.8.
I've got one day to sort it before a trip (or not) to LeMans next weekend.

Thanks

Angus

[andyp]

Hi Angus

I recently fitted a 123IGN (the XK version) and I have about 2500 miles on it now. Quite the best single upgrade I have even fitted. The engine was smoother immediately - I noticed the change the second it fired.

With a strobe light on it you can see that it holds it's timing perfectly, no wandering about and the curve is exactly where it should be.

Fit with a set of modern HT leads and I'm sure you will be pleased. Dropping it in and timing is a 30 min job.

My only niggle is that you have to remove the unit to change advance curve which means that roadside experiments are out. I suspect that is to stop you trying to change the curve with the engine running which would probably blow the electronics.

A great piece of kit.

Andy

[Series 1]

Andy,

Thanks for the reply, just what I was hoping to hear! Was going to replace leads and coil at the same time anyway. SC Parts are just down the road from me and have some in on Tue so I'll pick one up this week. I was wondering if setting up was an issue but looks like I should be good to go on Fri. I see there are various settings, presumably one is recommended for XK?

Thanks again.

Angus

[andyp]

Angus

There are two versions of the unit. One for general British 6 cylinders and another purely for the XK motor. Make sure you get the later.

Advance curve 2 [12degrees at 500-1200 and 34 at 3000] seems to be a favoured place to start. I use super unleaded and an octane booster so went for curve 7 which gives me a bit more advance at the top.

Set up really is dead easy. Set the engine to the static timing point, 10 BTDC on my 4.2, fit the unit and twist it untill the led lights. Nip up the clamp and go test.

Don't buy SNGs standard copper XK leads. You need a set of modern silicone (or whatever they put in them nowadays) leads.

Andy

[Heuer]

Andy

Super unleaded AND an octane booster! Doing drags at Santa Pod?

David

[andyp]

David

You should try getting out of our local Tesco car park. I need all the revs I can get.

Andy

[Series 1]

Thanks again for the advice, is the unit model the 123 IGN? Just want to make sure I get the right one! I've seen others mentioned on the 123 Forum for the XK engine but it might be a competition one as well as the standard 6 cyl one. Going to pick one up on Thursday.

[Heuer]

Angus

It needs to be this one: http://www.123ignition.nl/brand/Jaguar.html ref number 123\JAG-6-R-V (Des Hamil curves). Accept NO substitute despite what your chosen supplier may say!

Someone has already been testing the various curves and his findings and ideal setting for different compression ratios and types of fuel are here: http://www.123ignition.nl/forum/read.ph ... 446&t=1446

David