MSD questions for 1974 Challenger

[1986TurboZ]

Hello,

We have a '74 Challenger. It started as a 318 but when the engine failed we are installing a 408 small block. This engine was built for this application using a 340, bored and stroked.

The idea is to install an MSD ignition. My question(s) relate to the components needed.

My idea is to use the MSD 6AL but I'm not sure if we need to change the distributor.  Here is where I would appreciate you experience.

I know we will need to wire it in, that's not a problem.
I know we will need the control box (MDS - 6AL) wiring harness etc.
I know we will use an MSD coil.

But, do we need to change the distributor as well?  The current '74 distributor was the plan but if it is 'FAR' better to use the MSD unit we will do that.

BTW, this car needs an under hood harness and an under dash harness. If anyone has any source ideas for those two parts I would appreciate it.  I was considering Classic Industries or Year One. But if there is a better source I'd appreciate that input.

Any comments are appreciated.

[7212Mopar]

Year one for the wiring harness. Wait for the holiday 30% off coupon if you can. The stock Hall effect distributor will work but need to modify the connector. See if MSD makes an adapter. Better choice is the MSD billet distributor which has a fixed larger pickup, larger reluctor wheel, bigger cap and better ignition wire connection. It will not look stock though but you probably don't care since you are going with MSD ignition. You will need new ignition wires.  You can reuse the setup for timing control if you later go with EFI. Blaster 2 coil required.

[Cuda Cody]

Welcome to the forum @1986TurboZ     I agree with 7212Mopar.  Year One sells the best M&H wiring harnesses.  Wait for the 30% off coupon.

[Dakota]

I'm running a 6AL on my 340 with a Mopar Performance distributor (electronic points).  It works fine.  You'll have to do some wire splicing to get everything hooked up right, but if you follow the wire color coding on the 6AL instructions you'll be fine.   

You don't ask, but.... I have a lockout plate on my distributor to limit "all in" timing to 34 degrees.  If you're looking for guidance on timing, you'll want to reach out to @Chryco Psycho for help.  He has "full wizard" status in my book for setting up engines.

[Brads70]

I've been running a 6AL for many years with no issues. Using a stock distributor as well, rebuild from a local jobber.  One benefit IMO is getting rid of the troublesome ballast resistor......  I've used 6AL in all the cars I've ever had     ( performance type cars I meant) with no issues ever.  I  know Neil is not a fan of them.
I also am using a lockout plate. Actually Neil installed while at Carlisle one year! 

https://www.manciniracing.com/fbomodilipl.html

[Scooter]

^^^ Same experience with 6AL users above, have used with stock and MSD dizzy w/o issues. I put a MSD billet ready to run dizzy in my Fairlane to resolve timing advance issues I had with the stock unit. Make sure the box gets a good 12v source.

GL

[JS29]

@1986TurboZ  Year One 30% off code (pc6009) good till Monday at midnight. 

[1986TurboZ]

Thanks to everyone who replied. This is good info and I'll be ordering some parts today.

I appreciate the discount codes.

Looking at the harnesses I can't seem to locate one from the bulkhead forward. I've looked at Year One as well as Classic Industries and no joy.

If anyone has a part number or source for the bulkhead forward wiring harness I'd appreciate it.

[Chryco Psycho]

You could call Year One , I don't have a catalog here .
Evans wiring would also have it .
Yes the factory dist will work fine , the MSD mechanical advance is a little easier to set up but both dist really do the same thing .
Welcome to the Site @1986TurboZ 
Thanks @Dakota