Ignitor Electronic Ignition Module, Fits Mechanical 009

OVERVIEW

Upgrade your vintage air-cooled Volkswagen to the modern era of reliability with the PERTRONIX Ignitor Electronic Ignition Module. For decades, the Bosch-style 009 mechanical advance distributor has been the gold standard for performance engines, but the weak link has always been the traditional contact points. Mechanical points are prone to pitting, floating at high RPMs, and constant wear that requires frequent adjustment to maintain proper dwell and timing. The PERTRONIX Ignitor replaces these outdated components with a solid-state electronic system that utilizes rotating cobalt magnets and a Hall Effect integrated circuit. This means you will never have to file, gap, or replace points again, ensuring that your Beetle, Ghia, or Dune Buggy starts instantly and runs with clinical precision every time you turn the key.

Beyond the convenience of a maintenance-free ignition, the PERTRONIX Ignitor significantly enhances your engine''s performance profile. By providing a more stable and powerful spark throughout the entire RPM range, this module ensures a faster, more complete burn of the fuel-air mixture. This efficiency translates directly into crisper throttle response, improved fuel economy, and a noticeable increase in horsepower. Whether you are navigating a crowded city street in a vintage Bus or tearing up the sand dunes in a custom rail, the Ignitor provides the consistent energy delivery needed to prevent misfires and maximize torque. It is designed to fit entirely inside the distributor cap, maintaining a completely stock appearance while delivering race-ready electronics that can withstand the high-heat environment of an air-cooled engine bay.

FITMENT

This unit is specifically designed for Volkswagen air-cooled engines equipped with a Mechanical Advance 009 or 050 style distributor. It is compatible with the following models using these aftermarket or performance distributors:

• Volkswagen Type 1: Beetle, Bug, and Super Beetle (All Years).
• Volkswagen Type 2: Bus, Transporter, Kombi, and Microbus (1950-1979).
• Volkswagen Type 3: Fastback, Squareback, and Notchback (All Years).
• Volkswagen Type 181: The Thing (All Years).
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: All Years.
• Custom Applications: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, Trikes, and Kit Cars using Type 1 or Type 4 upright conversions.
• Distributor Note: Fits Bosch 009, 050, and most Chinese-manufactured 009 clones. Does not fit vacuum advance distributors.

SPECS

• Part Number: 1847A.
• Ignition Type: Hall Effect Solid State Electronic Ignition.
• Magnet Type: High-energy Rotating Cobalt Magnets.
• Operating Voltage: 8V to 16V DC (Negative Ground Systems).
• Temperature Range: -40 to +300 Degrees Fahrenheit.
• RPM Range: Rated from 0 to 15,000 RPM.
• Coil Requirement: Requires a minimum of 3.0 OHM primary resistance.
• Compatible Coils: Flame-Thrower 40501, 40511, 40611, or 28010.
• Installation Time: Approximately 15 to 30 minutes with basic hand tools.
• Housing Material: High-dielectric strength molded epoxy.

PRO TIPS

1. Verify Your Coil Resistance Before Installation

The most common cause of premature module failure is using an incorrect ignition coil. The PERTRONIX Ignitor 1847A requires a coil with at least 3.0 Ohms of primary resistance for 4-cylinder applications. If you use a high-performance low-resistance coil (like a 0.6 Ohm or 1.5 Ohm race coil) without a ballast resistor, you will draw too much current through the module and burn it out. Always use a digital multimeter to check the resistance between the positive and negative terminals of your coil before connecting the module to ensure it meets the 3.0 Ohm requirement.

2. Avoid the ''Key On'' Battery Drain Trap

Unlike some modern digital ignition systems, the standard Ignitor module is sensitive to being left in the ''On'' position without the engine running. If the ignition key is left in the ''Run'' position for an extended period while the engine is stationary, the module can overheat because it remains in a constantly energized state. Always make sure to turn the ignition completely off when working on other parts of the car or listening to the radio to protect the internal circuitry of your electronic ignition.

3. Re-Time Your Engine After Mounting

Installing the PERTRONIX Ignitor will change your ignition timing because the electronic trigger point is rarely in the exact same physical location as the old rubbing block on your points. Once the installation is complete, you must use a timing light to reset your engine''s timing. For a standard 009 distributor on a VW engine, we typically recommend setting the total timing to 28-30 degrees BTDC at 3,000+ RPM. Don''t rely on your old timing marks; a quick strobe check ensures you are getting the full performance benefits of the upgrade without risking engine ping or overheating.