1945 M. Electronic ignition

[Davestation75]

I've searched the forum list but can't locate anything.
If this topic is covered elsewhere, please let me know .

I'm interested in converting my 12v negative grounded M with the factory IH distributor over to electronic ignition obviously with the Pertronix kit.
My questions are :

1. Do I need to use special plug wires ?
Can I use copper wires ? I found red braided copper
Wires on Ebay but will they deliver the juice?


2. Spark plugs , any special ones needed or just the
standard ones will do ?

3. The Pertronix coil , is it worth it ?
Some say to pair it up with the kit during install to
save on troubles later .


Thanks in advance for any advice .

[Gary Dotson]

I've installed quite a few using the existing metallic core wire, with no issues. Lately, it seems, Pertronix is saying suppression wires are required. My solution is to use Pertronix spiral core wires, kinda the best of both worlds. The down side is that you have to make them up, they don't list wire sets for tractors.

No change on spark plugs but you can open the plug gap a little if you want to. I set mine at .030 instead of .023.

I've had great luck using stock coils. I've used the Pertronix a couple times when a new coil was needed and they worked quite well also. The most important thing is to read and follow the instruction sheet in reference to the coil ohm value. I don't think installing the Pertronix coil will "save on trouble later" but paying attention to the instructions will.

[Davestation75]

Thank you Gary for the advice .
Looks like Steiner has a set of custom fit wires they recommend with the Pertronix kits.

I haven't ordered the kit as of yet but when I do , I plan on doing it complete with the module , wires , coil and plugs .

[outdoors4evr]

I can't speak for the M, but my numbered lowboy has been running the 12V Pertronix 1442 with the stock copper core wires, stock ignition coil, and stock plugs (same old gap) for 5+ years. She starts easily & runs great!

[Davestation75]

Seems like everyone has different experiences with coils and wires .
I think I will try the red braided copper core wires I have and see what happens.
I'd like something different from the plain black wires .

[Slim140]

I can't speak for the M, but my numbered lowboy has been running the 12V Pertronix 1442 with the stock copper core wires, stock ignition coil, and stock plugs (same old gap) for 5+ years. She starts easily & runs great!

Our Cub starts easily and runs great as well....it has a 71 year old magneto on it

[ShawnAgne]

I used the stock plug wires on my Cub and 300 when I switched them to 12V, I added the flamethrower coil and opened up the gap to .032".
Use what you got and see how it goes.