[Mouser]

Working on my 1985 Chevy 4x4. 305 engine.

Was wondering if there is an upgrade option for the electronic spark control module? I would like to upgrade the distributor and any components that are in some way connected to it, but I never messed with an ESCM. Can it be bypassed alltogether? Thanks for any tips!

[dogwater]

I put in a Mallory High Fire in my 78 Camaro, and the module is removed when you use this unit. Each spark plug gets 2 sparks up to 3000 rpms. It has a rev. limiter on the box also.Not anything fancy but it works well.

[morcey2]

Originally Posted by Mouser

Working on my 1985 Chevy 4x4. 305 engine.

Was wondering if there is an upgrade option for the electronic spark control module? I would like to upgrade the distributor and any components that are in some way connected to it, but I never messed with an ESCM. Can it be bypassed alltogether? Thanks for any tips!

I've got the exact same engine. The ignition module in the distributor is a 5-pin module and can't be replaced by a CD ignition box like dogwater mentioned in his earlier HEI.

What type of upgrade options are you looking for? An MSD 6-series ignition box (and the like) will work fine with the electronic spark control module. I believe most aftermarket coils and non-module ignition components will work fine also. I'm going to be putting some sort of CD ignition on mine in the next month. I haven't seen an aftermarket 5-pin module for performance applications, but that doesn't mean they aren't out there.

If you want to just bypass the ESC because it's getting false-positives from engine noise, you can unplug the 4-pin connector and jumper two of the pins on the distributor side. I'll have to go look up which ones they are. If you want to replace it with a non-esc distributor, any sbc 4-pin HEI should work and have all of the aftermarket goodies available. But the only thing I think that will buy you is the aftermarket performance modules.

Matt

[LATECH]

Pins "A" and "C" would be the two on the distributor plug that need to be jumped together. Let the vehicle side of the plug unhooked. Then unplug the heavy gaige pink wire from the esc /knock module and plug it directly into the distributor at the Batt + post in the cap.
If it is working correctly, I would leave it alone.