I plan on installing a GM HEI unit in a 1966 Chevelle SS (just a cruiser, nothing more) in substitution for the stock points distributor. I had some questions if you knowledgeable gentleman are game.
1- Will the HEI fit in engine compartment? My BB 396 has the original single snorkel air cleaner, which has a flattened spot in the rear that appears it would allow clearance, but I'm unsure. Height to hood and firewall seems fine, though again, anyone with insight would be helpful.
2- Powering HEI... Is there anywhere to source the new terminal for the wire I'll be running from the bulkhead connector at firewall to HEI? I have decided (after a great deal of research) to replace resistor wire/terminal at bulk head connector and run to distributor. If I have problems, I may fall back to the "relay" method. I run accessory gauges, so the fuse box is getting crowded.
3- Shims for distributor? The engine has been rebuilt with minimal milling performed, so I'm unsure if any shims will be needed to accommodate any height changes due to the milling (i.e. distributor bottoming out).
4- My Chevelle appears to have a by-pass lead from starter solenoid to distributor, so I'm guessing that will need to be utilized as well (I will investigate if I have 12v at run AND start). If so, can I simply splice that wire in with ignition wire from firewall and mount to HEI?
That about covers it. Thanks for any feedback or answers you guys may have. I'm still learning so much but like to get my ducks in a row before proceeding.
1- Will the HEI fit in engine compartment? My BB 396 has the original single snorkel air cleaner, which has a flattened spot in the rear that appears it would allow clearance, but I'm unsure. Height to hood and firewall seems fine, though again, anyone with insight would be helpful.
2- Powering HEI... Is there anywhere to source the new terminal for the wire I'll be running from the bulkhead connector at firewall to HEI? I have decided (after a great deal of research) to replace resistor wire/terminal at bulk head connector and run to distributor. If I have problems, I may fall back to the "relay" method. I run accessory gauges, so the fuse box is getting crowded.
3- Shims for distributor? The engine has been rebuilt with minimal milling performed, so I'm unsure if any shims will be needed to accommodate any height changes due to the milling (i.e. distributor bottoming out).
4- My Chevelle appears to have a by-pass lead from starter solenoid to distributor, so I'm guessing that will need to be utilized as well (I will investigate if I have 12v at run AND start). If so, can I simply splice that wire in with ignition wire from firewall and mount to HEI?
That about covers it. Thanks for any feedback or answers you guys may have. I'm still learning so much but like to get my ducks in a row before proceeding.
