Vintage Newsletter - March 2012

Fender Gripper

The Fender Gripper Reviewed by Stan Marion from Winston-Salem, NCI was in the middle of PCV replacement plus turbo coolant lines, and to reach some of the components you have to be “on your head” in the engine bay. This means you are all over the fenders and I was in constant fear of scratching the paint.

I ordered two of these and they work perfect. They stay put and unlike my old beach towels they don’t wad up and offer much more protection. When you are done just roll ‘em up for easy storage.

Ignitor® Electronic Ignition by Pertronix 
for all 4 cylinder models 1962-74

There is a way that you can easily and economically upgrade your ignition in your Vintage Volvo. The Pertronix system means no more fussing with points or a condenser. This small unit fits inside the distributor with a simple two wire connection to the coil. The igniter system operates magnetically so there are no moving parts to wear out. By installing this system, you might even be able to salvage your distributor if the point lobes aren’t worn out. Pertronix provides strong spark throughout the entire rpm range and years of maintenance free performance.

TECH TIP: The Benefits of Electronic Ignition in a Vintage Volvo

The Pertronix sensor unit mounts inside the distributor where the points used to be, with two wires leading out through the distributor. The system is triggered by a collar that fits on the distributor shaft just below the rotor. Inside this collar are 4 magnets, 90 degrees apart. As each magnet passes the Pertronix sensor, it triggers the coil. Just like the points would do, but without any mechanical contact and thus, without any component wear.

There are two wires on the Pertronix; one red and one black. Depending on what model you have and how it’s configured, there are several possible ways to connect the wires up. 140 series without tachometers are the simplest: the red wire connects to the + terminal on the coil, and the black wire connects to the - terminal. 122, 544 and early 1800 models that use the armored cable to protect the + wire require slightly more attention, and 1800 models with tachometers are more complicated still. Even so, installation should not take more than an hour and the end result of never having to deal with worn, pitted, burnt or sloppy points can really make the effort worthwhile.

If this is something you’d like to consider but aren’t sure whether the installation process is realistic for you, give us a call and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have or you can follow the instructions that are included.

Bosch Fuel Injection and Engine Management by Bentley

Paper filters are generally unserviceable, but this is not the case for K&N filters. If you already have one, or have had it on your wish list you may already know that these filters seemingly last forever with the proper care.

We have paper filters, K&N, and the K&N filter cleaning and care kit so everyone can breathe better with products from ipd.

K&N Performance Air Filters

Fuel Filters for Trouble-free Performance