PerTronix Ignitor III 7ML-181 User Manual
Page 2
Red Wire
Jumper Wire
Black Wire (Open)
REV-LIMITER SPECIFICATIONS
Settings
RPM’S
Minimum
4000
Maximum
9000
Factory Setting
5500
WIRING INSTRUCTIONS
The Ignitor III can be used in conjunction with most ignition coils rated at 0.32
ohms or greater. For optimum performance we recommend our Flame-Thrower
III canister style or HC e-core coil.
Many vehicles came equipped with ballast resistors or resistance wires. To
achieve optimum performance we recommend removal of these components.
Determine the proper wire length, and attach the provided terminals. (Use a
wire crimping tool to achieve an adequate connection).
To remove a ballast resistor, (normally white ceramic blocks 3 to 4
•
inches long), disconnect all wires on both ends of the ballast resistor.
Remove the resistor from the vehicle and splice the disconnected wires
together at a single point.
To remove a resistance wire, trace the coil power wire, which was previ-
•
ously connected to the positive coil terminal, back to the fuse block.
Bypass this wire with a 12-gauge copper stranded wire.
+
-
To Ignition
Figure 1
REV-LIMITER SETTING PROCEDURE
Remove distributor cap and rotor.
1.
Turn the ignition key to the ‘ON’ position. Do not try starting the engine.
2.
Turn the Rev-Limit dial clockwise until it stops. Turn the dial counterclockwise until it
3.
stops. A slow blinking of the LED indicates that the setting procedure has been initial-
ized and that the Rev-Limit can be set.
Turning the dial clockwise sets the Rev-Limit. After turning the dial, pause and watch
4.
the LED for verification of the Rev-Limit setting. Long flashes indicate 1000 RPM’s
and short flashes indicate 100 RPM’s. For example, 6 long flashes followed by 2 short
flashes means the Rev-Limit is 6200 RPM’s. Continue turning the Rev-Limit dial until
the desired Rev-Limit is reached.
NOTE: Leaving the Rev-Limit dial in the full counterclockwise position disables
the Rev-Limiter.
Let the LED sequence thru at least three complete cycles. This verifies the correct set-
5.
ting and prepares the unit for permanent storage of the Rev-Limit.
Turn the ignition key off, this signifies to the Ignitor III that the Rev-Limit procedure is
6.
complete.
Note: The Ignition key MUST be turned off or the engine will not start.
Your rev limit is now set and will not change until you go through this procedure again.
7.
Re-install cap and rotor.
8.
NOTE: Setting the rev limit may be done effectively and easily on a bench or table.
Connect the module to a 9-volt battery as shown in figure 2. Then follow the setting
procedure outlined above.
Switch
9 Volt
Battery
+
-
Figure 2
Attach the black Ignitor III
1.
wire to the negative coil
terminal. (See Figure 1)
Attach the red Ignitor III
2.
wire to the positive coil
terminal. (See Figure 1)
Reconnect battery and
3.
make sure all wires are
connected.
The engine can now be
4.
started. Let the engine
run for a few minutes and
then set the timing in the
conventional manner.
COMMON QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Q. The engine will not start or runs rough. What is the problem?
A. Check all connections to insure that they are tight, and in the proper location. Visually check
and measure all grounds. Remove paint and corrosion from around the distributor hold down
bracket. Make sure that the Ignitor III red and black wires are connected properly. The Ignitor III
will shut down if the wires are incorrectly attached. The Ignitor III is designed to sense high current
levels. Check all wires for shorts, correct polarity and that the ignition coil’s primary resistance
level is acceptable. For more detailed information log on to www.pertronix.com or contact the tech-
nical department at (909) 599-5955.
Q. The vehicle will start, but then dies. After waiting, it starts. What is wrong?
A. The Ignitor III may have a “Low Voltage Problem.” If the voltage supplied to the red distributor
wire is insufficient, the system may run for a period of time, and then shut down as the voltage
drops due to engine heat. The period may vary from minutes to hours depending on available volt-
age and wiring condition.
Q. How do I check for a “Low Voltage Problem” or determine if I am getting adequate voltage?
A. To quickly test for a “Low Voltage Problem” or for adequate voltage (
Note: This is only a test
and is not intended as a permanent fix) attach a jumper wire from the positive battery termi-
nal to the positive terminal of the coil. Try to start the vehicle. If the vehicle starts, low voltage is
present.
Note: If the engine starts. The engine will not turn off unless the jumper wire is
removed from the positive battery terminal. Check connections and insure all external resistors
have being removed. For more detailed information on how to locate the source of the voltage
drop log on to www.pertronix.com or contact the technical department at (909) 599-5955.
Q. How do I check my coil for primary resistance?
A. Remove all wires from the coil. Set the ohmmeter to the lowest scale. Attach one lead of the
meter to the positive coil terminal. Attach the other lead to the negative coil terminal. The Ignitor III
is compatible with coils having a resistance of 0.32
ohms or greater.
Q. May I modify the length of the wires?
A. Yes, you may cut the wires to any length your application requires. You may also add lengths of
wire if needed (20-gauge). Make sure that all wire splices are clean and that the connections are
tight and insulated.
Q. Will the Ignitor III work with aftermarket capacitive discharge boxes?
A.
We recommend the Ignitor or Ignitor II as a trigger source for a capacitive discharge box.
For more detailed information log on to www.pertronix.com or contact the technical department at
(909) 599-5955.
Q. Will the electronic shift assist in an OMC boat work with the Ignitor III?
A. The Ignitor III will work with all OMC stern-drive applications, when our “diode fix” is used. If
you’ve purchased a kit that didn’t include the “diode fix” diagram, call our tech line.
Q. How can I receive additional help?
A. Check our web site for current trouble shooting tips and up to date technical information. Log on
to www.pertronix.com. You may also contact our tech line at (909)599-5955.
Install the distributor cap and rotor. Check to insure that all spark plug wires are
12.
seated securely in the distributor cap.
See Wiring Instruction.
13.