Newer alternatives to the rb20det ignitor/distributor

[R32RB20]

Hi all,

 

Are there any newer ignitor/distributors that we can use on an rb20det? I know we can get the original but the newer ones looks similar was wondering if anyone had given it a shot?

[GTSBoy]

Just don't run one. Convert to pencil coilpacks with the igniter built in. Many Toyota, Audi or later Nissan (VQ, VR) options exist.

[R32RB20]

1 hour ago, GTSBoy said:

Just don't run one. Convert to pencil coilpacks with the igniter built in. Many Toyota, Audi or later Nissan (VQ, VR) options exist.

Thanks, this is exactly the innovation I was looking for. Is there a "bolt on" pack for this swap or do I need to get into creative wiring?

[GTSBoy]

Yes. Just google "RB20 coilpack upgrade R35" or something similar. If you're in Oz there are going to be at least a few different kits.

[R32RB20]

Thanks I've had a look at a few, there not cheap either. The only thing that's confusing is some sites say they need programmable ecu and others don't for the same product. 

Yeah I'm in Oz, Sydney in fact

[GTSBoy]

Whether you need a programmable ECU will depend on whether the coils will be happy running the factory RB20 ECU dwell time. I think for yaris coils, Audi coils, Nissan pencil coils, etc, they're all fine running original dwell. I think the suppliers of these kits might be confusing themselves wrt the dwell question, because back when people used to use LS coils as an upgrade, they were definitely not happy with the factory RB20 dwell time.

But...."programmable ECU" is a triviality on an RB20. Just put a Nistune board in it. I cannot imagine running any Nissan ECU without Nistune in it. Why would you put up with all the factory stupidity, when you can get rid of the R&R, run more boost, make more power, make it cruise leaner and use less fuel, etc?

[joshuaho96]

11 hours ago, R32RB20 said:

Thanks I've had a look at a few, there not cheap either. The only thing that's confusing is some sites say they need programmable ecu and others don't for the same product. 

Yeah I'm in Oz, Sydney in fact

Check RB20 stock dwell time but RB26 coils have 2 ms dwell on the stock ECU and the R35 conversions work just fine without a tune at stock-ish power. Going to R35 coils is cheaper in the long run with how insanely expensive the ignitor is. I bought a replacement but most likely if the ignitor ever breaks again I'm going R35 coils.