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MYSTERY IGNITION

Q:I bought a 1967 Corvette with what I believe is a 350. I have included pictures of the ignition, which works fine, but what do I have?

I am not comfortable with the wiring as I do not know the function of the various wires. I understand points and condenser. Am I truly better off with electronic ignition for a daily driver? When I get it on the road, I plan to install a tach-drive distributor. What would you recommend?

This will never be a show car —just fun wheels. Also, what timing specification would you recommend for this ignition system?

I always enjoy reading your column.

Tim Kemple Via email

A: From the pictures you sent, it looks like an old Mallory system. It also looks like a functional but very sloppy wiring job. If the connections in the wiring are all sound, then the “snake’s nest” mess will not impact the reliability if the wires are not rubbing on something, and do not have the possibility to be burned.

Regarding what each wire connects to, all you need to figure