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Vehicle Info NeededTiming Controller with Adjustable Step Retard for 6, 7, 8 and 10 Series Ignition Controls
Ships on 10/19/2026
Lowest Price GuaranteeAn engine with a locked-out distributor or a crank trigger has no mechanical advance, so it sees full timing the moment it cranks, which makes it hard on the starter and hard to start. This timing controller solves that with a preset curve: it pulls 20 degrees out of the mechanical setting below 1,000 rpm, then advances progressively so full timing is back by 3,000 rpm. An adjustable step retard is included for nitrous or boost applications.
MSD 8980 Timing Controller Features:
- Preset ignition curve retards the mechanical timing setting 20 degrees until the engine climbs past 1,000 rpm, returning to the mechanical setting at 3,000 rpm.
- Designed for engines running a crank trigger or a locked-out distributor.
- Must be used with a 6, 7, 8 or 10 Series ignition control.
- Optional step retard is set with plug-in modules and activates when the gray wire is removed from ground.
- Supplied with 2, 3 and 4 degree retard modules, a two-pin connector with terminals and a GP15K diode.
- Programmable for 4, 6 or 8-cylinder engines using the internal wire loops.
- Works with points, amplifier or magnetic pickup trigger sources.
Control Your Ignition Curve!
MSD Ignition Timing Controls are designed so engines with locked out timing or crank triggers can take advantage of an ignition curve. The weights and springs inside your existing distributor are removed and the mechanical advance is locked out so the timing is controlled entirely by the MSD Ignition Timing Control. By controlling the ignition electronically, the timing curves can be set faster, more accurately, and with more adjustablility than mechanical advances. The Ignition Timing Controls provide reliable operation throughout the RPM range.
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This MSD Adjustable Timing Control puts you in control from the drivers's seat with a dash-mounted control knob that allows you to adjust the ignition timing to compensate for changes in altitude, low octane gas, or heavy loads. The control knob mounts to the dash board for easy and accurate timing adjustments up to 15°. Features:
- Perfect For Every Day Driving & Racing Applications
- Increased Fuel Mileage & Performance
- For Use on 4, 6 & 8-Cylinder Engines
- Control Ignition Timing From the Driver's Seat
- Timing Adjustments up to 15°
- 50-State legal - CARB E.O Number D-40-28Note: Must be used with an MSD 6, 7 or 8-Series Ignition Control
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