Ripper Ignition Kit, with Electronic Distributor, Black

OVERVIEW

The Appletree Automotive Ripper Ignition Kit represents the ultimate performance upgrade for any air-cooled Volkswagen enthusiast looking to eliminate the maintenance-heavy headaches of traditional points and condenser systems. This premium kit is specifically engineered to provide a "drop-in" solution that drastically improves engine reliability, throttle response, and overall power output. By transitioning to a high-quality pointless electronic distributor, you effectively remove the mechanical wear components that cause timing drift and frequent misfires. Whether you are cruising the coastal highways in a classic Cal-Look Beetle or navigating technical trails in a rugged Sand Rail, the Ripper kit ensures that your ignition timing remains rock-solid across the entire RPM range, allowing your flat-four engine to run smoother, cleaner, and more efficiently than ever before.

At the core of this comprehensive package is a high-performance Pertronix electronic distributor, which is perfectly paired with a Pertronix Flame-Thrower 40,000-volt coil and a set of custom-tailored 7mm spark plug wires. The 3.0-ohm internal resistance of the included coil is specifically matched to the electronic module''s requirements, preventing the overheating issues common with mismatched components and ensuring a consistent, high-energy spark. This high-voltage delivery allows for a more complete burn of the fuel-air mixture, which translates to better fuel economy and a noticeable increase in torque. Finished in a sleek, stealthy black, this kit doesn''t just provide modern electrical performanceit adds a professional, high-performance aesthetic to your engine bay. It is a complete ignition overhaul in one box, designed to make cold starts effortless and high-RPM power delivery seamless for the life of your vehicle.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle and Super Beetle (1954-1979) - 12V Systems
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus, Transporter, Kombi (1954-1979) - 12V Systems
• Volkswagen Type 3: Fastback, Squareback, Notchback (1961-1973)
• Volkswagen Type 181: The Thing (1973-1975)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: All Years (12V Converted or Factory 12V)
• Custom Applications: Sand Rails, Dune Buggies, Trikes, and Baja Bugs using Type 1 or Type 4 Upright Engines

SPECS

• Distributor Type: Pertronix Pointless Electronic (Hall Effect Sensor)
• Coil Voltage Output: 40,000 Volts (Flame-Thrower Series)
• Coil Primary Resistance: 3.0 Ohms (Internal)
• Spark Plug Wire Diameter: 7mm High-Temp Silicone
• Color Finish: Stealth Black
• System Voltage: 12-Volt Negative Ground Only
• Kit Components: Electronic Distributor, High-Voltage Coil, Spark Plug Wire Set
• Advance Type: Centrifugal Advance (Mechanical)

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Optimize Your Spark Plug Gap

Because the Ripper Ignition Kit utilizes a high-output 40,000-volt Pertronix coil, you are no longer limited by the narrow spark plug gaps required by old-fashioned points. To take full advantage of the increased voltage, we recommend widening your spark plug gap to approximately .035" to .040". A wider gap creates a larger, more robust spark kernel, which leads to a more efficient combustion cycle. This is particularly beneficial for engines running larger carburetors or those operating at higher altitudes where the air-fuel mixture might be less than ideal.

Tip 2: Proper Wiring and Heat Management

When installing your new electronic distributor, ensure that the red wire is connected to a switched 12V source (usually the positive side of the coil) and the black wire is connected to the negative side of the coil. It is absolutely critical that you do not leave the ignition in the "ON" position for extended periods without the engine running, as this can cause the electronic module to overheat. Additionally, ensure your engine grounds are clean and secure; a dedicated ground strap from the transmission to the chassis is highly recommended to provide the cleanest electrical signal for the electronic module.

Tip 3: Static Timing and Verification

Before you remove your old distributor, always rotate your engine to Top Dead Center (TDC) on the compression stroke for cylinder number one. This ensures that when you drop the new Ripper distributor into the drive gear, the rotor is pointing in the correct direction for your firing order (1-4-3-2). Once installed, always use a high-quality timing light to verify your total advance. While the mechanical advance is preset, every engine is different, and verifying that you are hitting roughly 28 to 32 degrees of total advance at 3,500 RPM will ensure maximum performance without the risk of engine-damaging detonation.