Okay, I'm ready to convert one of these period distributors for use in a speedster project. I have one of each, in great condition. Which is better suited to the Pertronix electronic ignition conversion? Are new caps and rotors available for either unit?
Does the LA have snap action points? Those minimize current draw, so good for running on dry cells. Don't toss those.
Milt Webb told me parts are hard to find for the KA.
bump
There used to be a very limited number of sellers in Hemmings Motor News that advertised NOS electrical components for early distributors - might take a look in there but I know of no reproduction parts suppliers for either the Atwater LA or any of the Bosch set ups. I have several of both and try to find extra parts at swap meets.
If you are running battery ignition without a generator Pertronix will work, but the old fashioned regulators will send spikes of up to 17 volts and fry the Pertronix which doesn't like more than 14 volts as a 12 volt unit and 7 volts if it is a six volt unit. For some reason mine was receiving an average of 15 volts out of a three way 1957 vibrating G.M regulator and cooked three Pertronix systems.
I'm planning to run a 12v constant loss system to power lights, ignition and fuel pump. Before everybody goes into a rant about fuel pumps, it's a speedster that will have a Holley 94 downdraft carb mounted too high above the frame to allow use of gravity feed. There will be no starter or generator on the car.