Club 80-90 Forums

Hello all,
     I have been researching a 123 ignition for my 1981 single cab Transporter.  Its a CT motor and has the stock DVDA distributor and a solex 34 pict 4 Carb.  In speaking with a rep at 123 they said the TUNE+-4-R-V-V unit would work with the correct curve.  My distributor number is 0237 023 005.  I could not find much information about this distributor but the guy at 123 ignition found an advance curve and emailed me the file.  I would be happy to send that file to whoever is interested.  I am a true novice and learning as I go so I think I can make it work.  My only concern is that ill be going from 2 vacuum lines on the distributor to one.  Im assuming the 123 electronically does something to make up for the other line to keep the timing correct? I just wonder if the timing would be different.  I have read lots about people who switched to the CT and the timing went from 5 degrees ATDC to about 8 - 10 degrees BTDC.  I have not read any posts about using a specific curve with the CT on a 123 ignition.  If anyone has any advice I would be happy to hear it.  Thanks.

Hello,
Haha the same year van as me....

Yes it is about time for you to change the ignition system.

For me there are 2 good options.

1).      Fit a new Powerspark SVDA ignition with a new coil.

Here:  https://youtu.be/WJPyPuJZkHU
 and:   https://youtu.be/L6dfb7ELtSc

2).      Fit a points and condenser ignition and coil.

Both will work fine, remember to carry either an ignition module or points and condenser as spares.

From the videos you will see that the timing is set at about 8°BTDC.

Hope this helps,

Cordialement,

Yes thanks @sarran1955 I have watched almost all your videos I think. I understand that the timing would change. I just thought that with the 123 ignition you can program it with the same curve as the stock distributor. I thought maybe the timing wouldn’t change. I guess there is only one way to find out. Truck is away for the winter so I won’t buy anything until the spring. Thanks again.