Questions and Answers

1958 Cadillac Ignition Points Q. Read your Web article "Point Type Ignition Systems" and found it very interesting. I have a quick question for you. I have a 1958 Cadillac (purchased new) and find that all of the "replacement" points come with a square black "positioning" plug that fits into a square hole on the newer (1965 and up?) breaker plates. My points were flat on the bottom as the breaker plate does not have any cut outs. Do I just remove this black plug and install the points or are there 1958 style points available?

A. It's been awhile since I've seen any points. I don't see any harm in removing the lug if it's not going to affect the longevity or mounting of them. Is this a show car? Have you thought of upgrading to electronic ignition distributor?

The "newer" GM points have an adjuster on the point set. The distributor cap had a door that allowed the adjusting tool to go in and adjust the dwell angle while the engine is running. Dwell is 30°.