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MG MGB Technical - Euro Spec 45D Distributor

I have a 1972 B with the original 25D distributor fitted with the optical Lumenition. I was thinking about upgrading to the "Euro spec" 45D distributor for new bushing and a more performance curve. Has anyone had expereince with this distributor. I believe Brit-Tek sells this unit as part of the utlimate ignition system. Secondly, how can I purchase the Lumenition optical trigger for the 45D distributor so I can re-use the existing Lumenition poer module and wiring? Thanks
Dave B

Dave-
The Eurospec distributor is indeed included as part of Brit tek's Ultimate ignition kit. It's the UK/European market version that our smog laws wouldn't let us have. The Stage II distributor is a vacuum advance distributor with an Aldon-modified special advance curve to enhance low and mid RPM power output and is good for 100HP on a high compression engine (9:1). Either distributor will work well with an early stock camshaft or a Piper 270. My 1972 18V engine has the Piper 270 and the Aldon 101BR2 (Stage II). Expect a clean, smooth idle with no cold weather start up problems. Sorry, but I can't help you with the Lumenitron problem as I use a Crane/Allison unit (Heresy!).
Steve S.

I installed this distributor earlier this year, what a difference. Car runs very well.
Hilary

Steve, I am assuming that you are refering to two different distribtors; a Euro spec 45D for stage I and a Aldon modified 45D for stage II? Will the Aldon work with a slightly modified 18V (slightly higher CR, good cyl head, HS6 SU's)? How does a person make a choice between these two distributors?
Dave B

Dave-
You could consider the Eurospec to be a "stock" distributor (Stage 1, as you call it), although not a North American Market item. If you want low maintenance, it's the better choice. If you choose the Stage II Distributor, you'll get a bit more performance, but you'll have to pay attention to the ignition timing a bit more often. You don't get something for nothing, you know. A Stage II distributor should be considered a necessity to exploit the potential of an engine with reworked heads or with a Piper 270 camshaft, or both. Remember, changing the camshaft or carburetors before getting the heads reworked is putting the cart before the horse. HS6 carburetors are best used with a Piper 285 camshaft or something hotter. Don't bother putting HS6 carburetors on until you have the heads worked or you'll have a lumpy, vibrating idle.
Steve S.

Steve, do you know how a 43D (no vac) compares with a Eurospec 42D?

rn
RN Lipow

RN-
Sorry, but I can't answer that one. However, I do know that Aldon has a purly centrifugal advance distributor that's supposed to be really great (Aldon Part #101BR1). They have a website at http://www.aldonauto.co.uk/ Brit Tek imports and sells the same distributor from Aldon as their Stage III distributor. Brit Tek has a website at http://www.brittek.com
Steve S.

The 43D is Aldon's base distibutor for the 101BR1. I just installed one in my '71. I actually bought it from Brittek as the stage II distributor. It made a big difference from the original 25D, But I have yet to get it "tweaked" to perfection. I believe that without the vacuum advance there will be less response when driving in the partial throttle range.
Jeff.


Jeff Schlemmer

Thanks all...the 43D is quite an improvement over the 42DE4 ("the big pig") dizzy originally fitted on my old engine...

rn
RN Lipow

Which dizzy would be best for a fast street set-up if you use the pertronix elec ign?

Fred Horstmeyer

Fred-
Which distributor is best for "a fast street set up" depends entirely on what modifications you've done to the engine. What'cha got? (carburetion, exhaust system, headwork, camshaft, air cleaners, manifolds, etc.)
Steve S.

Does vacuum line on Brittek's Eurospec distributor attach to the carburetor port or the manifold? Does it make a difference?
Art DiLello

Two years ago, I asked Bob at Brit-tek the same question about whether it would work better with ported or manifold vacuum. I believe he told me that it would be best with the ported vacuum. However it comes with setup instructions for both setups. I used it with my manifold vacuum'd HIF4's and it was noticeably smoother and returned some badly needed performance. I have since changed to HS4 carbs, and it all works together quite nicely. I've had the distributor on the car for 2 years-10,000 miles, and have not yet had to touch the points. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this distributor. As for the Lumenition optical trigger for this distributor, I'd ask Bob directly if there is anything that he can do.
SteveO

I fit the Crane system into my new dizzy, and it fit with much greater ease than in the 25d. I'm sure the Luminition would be even easier.
Jeff.

Jeff Schlemmer

This thread was discussed between 23/09/2001 and 27/09/2001

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