Michael,
I purchased a 1980 Spitfire in 1997, I was quite lucky because it came with a Crane electronic ignition and a Weber DVG. The combination make for a very reliable car and provides nice performance. Some of the things I did to make it better are: First I installed a set of Bosch Platinum plugs, (I used the recommended heat range from the book) installed a set of good low resistance wires (I used Accel generic wires so I could cut them to the length I wanted and had 4 extea wires for the next time) and an Accel coil. I found the vacuum advance had been disconnected so I took the unit off the distributor and covered the opening. I discovered that the distributor plate was loose and caused the car to stutter during acceleration. To remedy this I installed a set screw through the distributor plate then set the timing at the highest advance setting recommended, I believe it was 10 degrees BTDC (it has been a while since I did this so my memory is a little foggy on the exact setting). Altogether These changes produced a very nice accelerating car and has been very reliable, I could drive the Spit everyday from late March / April to November ( thats pretty good in New Hampshire) Never a problem starting or running at reasonable highway speeds. I have gotten up to 85 mph without an overdrive thats pretty decent. Most of the parts are available at your local discount auto parts store. By the way a PURE ONE oil filter is my recommendation it has an anti drain-back valve and one of the best filter elements, I believe the number is 1117. As you can probably tell I am not a purest when it comes to using only original parts. Replacing the stock carb (which has a reputation for leaking) and replacing the Lucas (Prince of Darkness) ignition may be considered unconventional but the end result increased reliability and more driving fun far outweigh the alternative.
Enjoy your Spitfire!! I know I enjoy driving mine!! ;-)
Dan
Dan Beliveau
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