FIT AND CONFIGURE YOUR SYSTEM Tech Tip

Survey your equipment 1

The kit from Aldon includes an Amethyst control module, a selection of springs to lock the centrifugal advance weights, a resistor for use if the module is triggered by points, a cable to connect to your laptop and a USB drive containing the software.

Mark ignition sensor 4

Turn the engine by hand until the timing marks on the crank pulley are aligned. If your car has a discreet Hall-effect electronic ignition system, make a reference mark on the sensor and the trigger ring. Skip this if you’re sticking with points.

Make timing marks 2

Setting up the Amethyst later will be easier if the timing is correctly adjusted at the start. On most classics the crankshaft pulley will have markings before and after TDC. Mark the pulley according to the static timing figure in your workshop manual.

Lock centrifugal advance 5

Remove the distributor baseplate and take the springs off the advance weights underneath. Use lock-wire or the springs supplied in the kit to lock them in the fully-advanced position. The new system will advance the ignition electronically.

Check the timing 3

Let the engine warm up, then disconnect and plug the vacuum advance tube. Use a timing strobe with the engine at idle to make sure the timing’s set to the manufacturer’s specification. Adjust if necessary by slackening and rotating the distributor.

Mount control unit 6

Find a suitable place to fit the control unit. Try to tuck it away somewhere where it’ll be protected from moisture and excessive heat, and where it’ll be easy to run wires to the distributor. High up on an inner wing or on the bulkhead is ideal.

Connect vacuum advance 8

The Amethyst calculates vacuum advance electronically (note that some other systems do not – see their instructions). Remove the vacuum tube from the distributor and reroute it neatly to the control unit. A longer tube may be required.