MSD system and stock ECU

[plymouthy]

I am installing a new engine/trans in my 73 duster, the previous owner installed a complete MSD 6A system (6A, msd distributor and coil). He left the original Electronic Control Unit (Orange box) but cut the distributor wires. I have searched the forums and it appears the the factory ECU is not needed, and not installed when converting to MSD. Any reason to leave the ECU in the car incase of a MSD failure (reconnect the distributor wires just to get home - it may be hard to replace the MSD in BF North Dakota, atleast you could get to someplace to buy a replacement MSD).
Or am I just paranoid and this is the least of my worries on a road trip? Since this is a daily driver, and teenage kids car, I want to make it as failsafe as possible.
Thanks again for the help

 

[dgc333]

It depends on what distributor you have. If its a ready to run (three wires coming out of the distributor) there is no easy way to hook the distributor up to the mopar ecu. If the distributor is one with just a magnetic pick up in side (two wires coming out) you can run the engine off either the 6A box or the mopar ecu.

 

[stroked 340]

Sounds like he installed a complete msd system dist,coil,6a box which is a very good thing,and just left the factory box mounted in place might have been too lazy to remove it and the factory wiring not a big deal,you can remove it if you like..and trust me the msd system is peace of mind.compared to the mopar stuff...

 

[redfastback]

Sounds like he installed a complete msd system dist,coil,6a box which is a very good thing,and just left the factory box mounted in place might have been too lazy to remove it and the factory wiring not a big deal,you can remove it if you like..and trust me the msd system is peace of mind.compared to the mopar stuff...

I will have to agree on this one about peace of mind. Then again, its who you talk to and which system they like better. Just make sure it is grounded well, and that the car, engine, battery are all grounded well too.