The ignition system of our classic Volkswagen can cause many problems. After years of use, the mechanical ignition system wears out and becomes more and more unreliable. If available for your engine, you can replace the complete distributor, but there is a much better alternative: the 123 distributor for standard and performance engines.
The 123 distributor is delivered in a case that looks a lot like the original but inside you won't find any more mechanical parts. The obsolete mechanical system has been replaced by a high-tech computer-controlled system, creating an optimal ignition system with maximum performance and virtually maintenance-free.
All mechanical parts such as contact points, centrifugal weights or vacuum diaphragm, springs, bearings have been replaced by a single part: the central shaft with rotor. The internal electronics provide the right ignition timing and optimum contact angle (Dwell) angle at different speeds, so you get maximum spark at every speed. The parts used to adjust the ignition are not subject to wear. Once it's settled, you don't have to worry anymore.
For the standard 123 ignition, a small switch located behind the Allen screw at the bottom of the housing sets the correct advance curve for your engine (there are 16 different advance curve settings available). Each 123 ignition is also equipped with synchronous technology that is normally only used in Formula 1, where very high speeds are reached. The electronics constantly look at the amount of energy that is supplied per cylinder, imagine that the compression of one cylinder differs from that of the other cylinders, then the rotation of the flywheel becomes less regular, so that the rotation of the camshaft is also less regular. The 123 ignition senses this and adjusts the ignition timing per cylinder, resulting in an engine that runs smoothly and delivers more power and less wear. These are not the only advantages compared to traditional ignition, here is an overview of the advantages:
- automatic quick-start program when the engine is cold
- improved ignition per cylinder as described above
- continuous adjustment and correction of the ignition angle
- automatic switch-off after 1 second when the ignition is switched on and the engine is not running (the ignition coil is then spared)
- fuel economy
- operates on 6 and 12 V (is automatically recognised)
Ignition system 123 is suitable for engines:
type 1, except for 25 hp and 30 hp
type 3 engines
CT/CZ and type 4 engines, but if an electronic ignition was originally present, add the ignition coil mentioned under the options tab because the current coil is not suitable.
123 TUNE
By connecting the 123 TUNE to the computer, it can be easily adapted to the exact needs of the user without any restrictions, no matter how demanding they may be. The ignition offers two switchable advance curves, allowing you to adjust the ignition when driving with two different fuels, such as petrol or LPG or petrol and E85, for example. The 123 TUNE is equipped with a vacuum connection that remains disconnected when this option is not available, as is the case with many performance engines with larger carburetors. This makes the 123 TUNE suitable for all possible motors, from standard to performance motors.
These are all the extra functions that the 123 TUNE has to offer far more than the standard distributors:
- two feed curves (500 to 8000 rpm)
- two no-load feed curves and thrust delay curves (0 to 200 kPa or -30 Hg at +15 psi)
- two speed limits (MAP-start) where no-load advance starts when connected
- two speed limit fields (advanced random spark stealing)
- real time adjustment from the keypad
- rpm stopwatch (ideal for tuning on the road)
- file import and file to file export functions (easy change of curves)
- electronic dashboard with :
temperature indicator (in ° Celsius or ° Fahrenheit)
pressure inlet manifold (in bar or inches Hg/Psi)
rev counter (0 to 8000 rpm crankshaft)
energy meter (flow in ignition coil)
meter with full advance (in degrees crankshaft)
The necessary software can be downloaded free of charge.
Optional Tip :
123 distributors have a universal housing, when mounted in our air-cooled Volkswagens, a gap is left between the distributor and the mounting bracket. To fill this gap, an optional ring is available (see options tab). It is not a necessity but it is recommended.
Installation manual
Useful information from Paruzzi magazine and from our YouTube channel :
Look for more technical articles on the page Paruzzi Magazine