Programmable MSD 6AL-2 questions
I am swapping out the CCC Quadrajet, Distributor and ECM for a mechanical Quadrajet, Pro-Billet MSD #85551 Distributor and MSD #6530 Programmable MSD 6AL-2 ignition box today. The CCC system ran very well but I had a few issues with it that were not correctable so I decided to go this route vs upgrading this engine to EFI.
After gathering up most of the parts, I put power to the ignition box on my bench to test and make sure the serial to usb adapter I picked up would let my laptop see the box, it did.
I bought the box gently used from a somewhat local guy that told me he had changed the rev limiter and timing curve in it, so I tried to view them to change them back to a somewhat factory default setup for my initial start. I found the rev limits easily and could change those, but in the MSD Pro-Data software I can not figure out how to see and\or change the timing cure. I"m certain I'm just not pressing the right button or something stupid but it has me befuddled. Is anyone proficient in using this software that can help a newbie get his feet wet in this area?
My engine is a crate GMPP HT383, basically a 9.1 compression, vortec heads, Camshaft Type (P/N 14097395): Hydraulic roller Camshaft Lift (in.): .431 intake / .451 exhaust Camshaft Duration (@.050 in.): 196° intake / 206° exhaust with an aluminum dual plane intake and 1 5/8s mid length headers.
It shouldn't take anything really radical or special for a timing curve, the book suggest 32 degrees total timing with a 6000 RPM max. Cruising RPM is 1700-1800 RPM in 6th gear and the car weighs 3500#s or so. I probably could have gotten by with an just an e-curve MSD with or without a 6AL box, but I picked this box up for a decent price and MSD said the best distributor to use with it is the 85551. Plus, I like tinkering with things and this box will really let me fine tune the ignition for my needs.
Anyway, I realize this isn't EFI and computer timing, but if anyone used to mess around with old school ignitions and primarily has used this programmable ignition box and software and can help a newbie learn it, that would be great. I kind of want to make sure I know what's in the box before I fire it up for the first time if you get my drift.
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Lance
1985 Monte Carlo SS Street Car
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