is there any way to test the condition of an older hei? do any of the chain stores have equipment to check the module? thanx mike

I have never had a module tested, but I think that it has been mentioned here that it can be done at some parts stores. There are other ways to test, asn mentioned in the Chevelle Tech Reference articles, like here:

http://www.chevelles.com/techref/ftecref5.html

As a matter of routine, I change out the pickup coil when I get an HEI to put in my car. They do not last forever, as the wires crack with age and some of the insulation looks like it is from another century.

Auto Zone tests them in our town. Is there one near you? Give them a try.

napa, autozone, advance, give them a call and ask to find out for sure.

even if you test the module and it says its good it could still go out the next day and as forementioned the pickup coil or stator goes bad also as the vacuum advance move back and forth it breaks the wire inside the pickup.It is cheaper to buy a whole new dist. off of ebay than to buy a new module and pickup. th HEIs on ebay are only 43.95 plus shipping.you should always keep an extra module in your glove box along with the correct size tools to change it.they can go bad new or used.just my 2cents.