97 xj-- can it be converted to the old style distributor..

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milk - 23 Jun 2007 04:17 GMT

hi,

Since we still can't figure out why there is no spark on my 97 xj,
this question was tossed out into the fray:

IS it possible to convert the current distributor over to an older
style with points and condenser?

If so, has anyone done it? Theoretically, this should enable the xj
to get a spark and start, correct?

any help is appreciated,
thanks

Sandy

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Matt Macchiarolo - 23 Jun 2007 11:53 GMT

I doubt it, I don't think it would be compatible with the computer, unless
you bypass it completely, which would open up a whole new can of worms. No
spark is a sign of an electrical problem which may keep the
points/condensor distributor from producing spark as well.

> hi,
>
[quoted text clipped - 11 lines]
>
> Sandy

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Jeff Strickland - 23 Jun 2007 22:57 GMT

> hi,
>
[quoted text clipped - 3 lines]
> IS it possible to convert the current distributor over to an older
> style with points and condenser?

It may be possible, but it will not pass smog if you manage to do it.

To do the conversion, you would need a distributor that is the proper
length, and has a plate inside that could hold the points, and the wiring
would support the control voltages and the computer would be okay with not
providing outputs and receiving inputs relative to the ignition system it
expects to find.

> If so, has anyone done it? Theoretically, this should enable the xj
> to get a spark and start, correct?
[quoted text clipped - 3 lines]
>
> Sandy

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bllsht - 24 Jun 2007 07:17 GMT

>hi,
>
[quoted text clipped - 6 lines]
> If so, has anyone done it? Theoretically, this should enable the xj
>to get a spark and start, correct?

Nope.

>any help is appreciated,
>thanks
>
>Sandy

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Mike Romain - 25 Jun 2007 03:40 GMT

> hi,
>
[quoted text clipped - 11 lines]
>
> Sandy

How is the battery on that? If one cell is going bad, the battery can
still turn the vehicle over but not turn on the computer. The newer
Chrysler computers are bad for that. It needs over 10.2 volts under
starter load I believe but could be off on the number.

Just a thought.

You would just about need to go with a carb to use an old style
distributor on it. The 258's intake manifold and carb 'can' fit on,
but.... Folks usually go the other way....

Mike
86/00 CJ7 Laredo, 33x9.5 BFG Muds, 'glass nose to tail in '00
88 Cherokee 235 BFG AT's - Gone to the rust pile...
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