To ensure that the test was fair, we had to make this distributor as good as new, or better. So, before it ever saw action, the stock distributor was treated to a new rotor, cap, and module.

The HEI distributor is still an inductive-discharge ignition, but exchanges points for an electronic device called a module.

The GM HEI distributor is still a marvel of simplicity and reliability after four decades. Here’s how to maximize its performance on the cheap.