TFI ???

[alaska'76]

I just swapped a 79 wiring harness into my 76 j10. I put in the ford dizzy. I've seen several posts about TFI, what is it? What do you gain? How much will it cost?

Thanks, Mike

[2man]

All i can add to this conversation is i skipped the tfi and went straight to the MSD. Some think its over kill but when i felt the difference in respons and power i knew it was worth every penny. I got the Pro-Billet distributor, and the offroad ignition for $406 shipped to me from carpartsonsale.com. Just my opinion. :D

[reddog]

Can't argue with the MSD. Just the cost is the sticking point.

The "TFI" is just an inexpensive way to get more power out of your ignition. It is especially cost effective if you are due for a full tune-up including plug wires. It is basically just using a Ford TFI coil (Thick Film Integrated) and adding an adapter on the distributor so a larger cap/rotor is used to help minimize arcing inside the cap. The larger cap requires the newer style plug wires.
I did it on my 87 wag and the total cost was about $75. That was for the new cap/rotor, plugs and plug wires and used adapter (for newer style cap), TFI coil/bracket/connector. Spark plugs were gapped at about 40-42. I also replaced the distributor at the same time and that cost an additional $50 as the vacuum advance diaphram was bad and the cheapest I found the diaphram for was $40.

I got slightly smoother idle, quicker starts and MAYBE slightly better milage/less emissions. Worth the cost. If I were rich I would buy the MSD ignition and use the ford distributor with the adapter and larger cap/rotor.

Kerry

[91GWag]

Just do it! Starts, runs, drives noticeably better for not much more cost that a tune up.

Have fun! :D

[Ernzo]

Hi!
I know I could search, but heck, lets talk!

When doing a TFI, is it necessary or reccomended to remove or disable the resistor wire to get a full 12v?? Am I missing something? (most likely...)

E

[reddog]

Ernzo, It was told to me to leave it so I did. When running your voltage should be 13.5 up to about 14.3, not 12!

Kerry

[Michael]

Any cathces on this. I bought everything to do mine at lunch today. I guess my question was answered on the resistor. I was wondering that myself. I will change mine over tonight. I have heard nothing but good things from this. I totally cost me around $90. I bought the good MSD wires. smile.gif

[Ernzo]

Thanks red Dog. Leave the resistor wire in place.

E