Chrysler SB 318/360 V8 HEI Distributor
Chrysler SB 318/360 V8 HEI Distributor
SKU: SKU: JM6513R
In stock
Product Details
Features
- Self-contained HEI-style ignition for Chrysler 273/318/340/360 LA small block V8s
- Internal 65,000V coil eliminates need for external coil or ignition box
- Direct fit for Dodge Dart, Challenger, Ramcharger & Plymouth Fury LA engines
- Machined aluminum housing with included vacuum advance tool and install guide
Description
The TSP HEI Distributor for Chrysler SB 318/360 is a self-contained ignition upgrade for the Chrysler/Mopar LA small block V8 family — 273, 318, 340, and 360 CID. It integrates a magnetic pickup trigger, ignition module, and a 65,000-volt coil into a single housing, so the whole ignition system connects to one 12-volt source with no external coil or ignition box to wire in.
This distributor requires a 12-volt electrical system with an alternator. It is not compatible with generator-based charging systems or vehicles still running a ballast resistor in the ignition circuit — the ballast resistor must be removed or bypassed before installation. Vehicles originally built with a 6-volt system (pre-1956) will need a 12V conversion completed first, or this distributor will not fire correctly.
Engine fitment covers the Chrysler LA small block family — 273 (4.5L), 318 (5.2L), 340 (5.6L), and 360 (5.9L) CID — commonly found in the Dodge Dart, Challenger, Ramcharger, Plymouth Fury, and Chrysler Cordoba. This distributor is not designed to fit Chrysler Magnum-series V8s.
What Is an HEI Distributor and How Is It Different From a Points Distributor?
HEI (High Energy Ignition) replaces the breaker points and external coil found in original Mopar ignition systems with a magnetic trigger and a high-output internal coil built into the distributor cap. Because there are no points to wear down or gap over time, an HEI-style distributor holds ignition timing more consistently and doesn't require periodic point-gap adjustment. If your vehicle currently has a factory points-style distributor, this unit replaces both the distributor and the ignition coil in one part.
Ballast Resistor and 12V Charging System Requirements
Factory Mopar points-style ignition systems often used a ballast resistor to limit voltage to the coil during normal running. This distributor's internal coil is designed to run on full battery voltage, so an active ballast resistor left in the circuit will cause it to run too cold, leading to weak spark or misfires. The ballast resistor should be removed or bypassed as part of installation, and the vehicle must have a 12-volt charging system with an alternator — this unit will not operate correctly on a 6-volt or generator-based charging system.
Performance Benefit
The 65,000-volt internal coil delivers stronger spark output than a factory points-style distributor, supporting easier cold starts and more consistent spark across the RPM range. The magnetic trigger holds timing accurately without the wear and drift that accumulates in points-based systems over time. Mechanical and vacuum advance are both included, with a vacuum advance adjustment tool shipped in the box so the advance curve can be tuned for your specific engine and driving conditions.
Specs
| Trigger Type | Magnetic |
| Advance Type | Mechanical and Vacuum |
| Color | Available in Black, Blue, Red, Orange |
| Terminal Gender | Male |
| Mechanical Tach Drive | No |
| Rotation Direction | Clockwise |
| Slip Collar | No |
| Coil Included | Yes |
| Coil Type | Internal |
| Coil Output | 65000 V |
| Housing Material | Machined Aluminum |
| Ignition Box Required | No |
| Marine Use | No |
| Cylinders | 8 |
| Included | Vacuum Advance Adjustment Tool Installation Instructions |
Engine Fitment
COMPATIBLE WITH
CHRYSLER SMALL BLOCK "LA" V8
• 4.5L / 273 in³
• 5.2L / 318 in³
• 5.6L / 340 in³
• 5.9L / 360 in³
NOTES
• Fits Chrysler/Mopar LA small block V8 engines (273, 318, 340, and 360).
• HEI design with internal coil — no external coil or ignition box required.
• Not compatible with Magnum 5.2L or 5.9L engines (1992 and newer) — Magnum engines require a different distributor.
• The 360 was used in passenger cars through 1980 only; truck/van applications continued through 1992.
• Designed for carbureted ignition systems only.
• This distributor is designed for a 12 volt electrical system with an alternator.
• It is not compatible with a generator and cannot be used with a ballast resistor.
• Distributor gear compatibility should be verified with camshaft material before installation.
COMMON VEHICLE APPLICATIONS
Plymouth Valiant / Dodge Dart (273, 1964–1969; 318, 1967–1976; 340, 1968–1973; 360, 1974–1976)
Plymouth Barracuda / Dodge Challenger (273, 1964–1969; 318, 1970–1974; 340, 1970–1973; 360, 1971–1974)
Plymouth Duster / Dodge Demon (318, 1971–1976; 340, 1971–1973; 360, 1974–1976)
Plymouth Road Runner / Satellite / GTX (318, 1968–1975; 340, 1971–1973; 360, 1974–1975)
Dodge Charger / Plymouth Fury (318, 1967–1978; 340, 1968–1973; 360, 1971–1978)
Dodge Diplomat / Plymouth Volare / Chrysler Cordoba (318, 1975–1989; 360, 1975–1980)
Dodge Ramcharger / Plymouth Trail Duster (318, 1974–1992; 360, 1974–1980)
Dodge D/W-Series Trucks (273, 1965–1969; 318, 1967–1991; 360, 1971–1992)
Dodge B-Series Vans (318, 1967–1991; 360, 1971–1992)
Dodge Li'l Red Express (360 EH1, 1978–1979)
Q&A
Does this distributor include an ignition coil?
Yes. This HEI distributor features an integrated 65,000-volt ignition coil housed inside the distributor cap. No external ignition coil, ignition box, CDI unit, points, or condenser is required. Simply connect a full 12-volt ignition source, install the distributor, and set the timing.
What direction does this distributor rotate?
This distributor rotates clockwise, matching the standard rotation direction used by Chrysler LA-series small block V8 engines, including the 273, 318, 340, and 360 CID.
What is the difference between this HEI distributor and a Ready-to-Run distributor with an external coil?
This HEI distributor integrates the ignition coil directly into the distributor cap, producing up to 65,000 volts while requiring only a single 12-volt power connection. A Ready-to-Run distributor uses an external ignition coil (not included) but also does not require an ignition box. The HEI design offers the simplest installation, while the Ready-to-Run design provides greater flexibility when selecting an aftermarket ignition coil.
Does this distributor include a vacuum advance adjustment tool?
Yes. A vacuum advance adjustment tool is included, allowing you to fine-tune the vacuum advance curve without removing the distributor. Installation instructions are also included.
Will this distributor fit a 1970 Dodge Dart with a 318?
Yes. The 1970 Dodge Dart equipped with a Chrysler LA-series 318 CID small block V8 is a confirmed application for this distributor. It also fits compatible 273, 340, and 360 LA small block engines in carbureted applications.
What electrical system does this distributor require?
This distributor requires a 12-volt electrical system with a charging alternator. It is not compatible with 6-volt systems, generator-equipped vehicles, or ballast resistor ignition circuits.
Will this distributor fit a Magnum 318 or 360 engine?
No. This distributor is designed specifically for Chrysler LA-series small block V8 engines (273, 318, 340, and 360 CID). It is not compatible with Magnum 318 (5.2L) or Magnum 360 (5.9L) engines, which use a different distributor design and ignition system.
Emissions Notice
This Top Street Performance (TSP) product is designed for racing and off-road competition use only. It is not legal for use on public roads or emissions-controlled vehicles and does not comply with federal, state, or local emissions regulations. The buyer assumes all responsibility for legal use and installation.
What is a Emissions-Controlled Vehicle?
"An emissions-controlled vehicle is any vehicle equipped with a factory-installed emissions control system designed to reduce air pollution. These systems include catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valves, and diesel particulate filters (DPF). Most vehicles manufactured after 1975 are considered emissions-controlled and must comply with federal and state emissions laws when used on public roads."
Perfect
Chrysler SB 318/360 V8 HEI Distributor
The TSP HEI Distributor for Chrysler SB 318/360 is a self-contained ignition upgrade for the Chrysler/Mopar LA small block V8 family — 273, 318, 340, and 360 CID. It integrates a magnetic pickup trigger, ignition module, and a 65,000-volt coil into a single housing, so the whole ignition system connects to one 12-volt source with no external coil or ignition box to wire in.
This distributor requires a 12-volt electrical system with an alternator. It is not compatible with generator-based charging systems or vehicles still running a ballast resistor in the ignition circuit — the ballast resistor must be removed or bypassed before installation. Vehicles originally built with a 6-volt system (pre-1956) will need a 12V conversion completed first, or this distributor will not fire correctly.
Engine fitment covers the Chrysler LA small block family — 273 (4.5L), 318 (5.2L), 340 (5.6L), and 360 (5.9L) CID — commonly found in the Dodge Dart, Challenger, Ramcharger, Plymouth Fury, and Chrysler Cordoba. This distributor is not designed to fit Chrysler Magnum-series V8s.
What Is an HEI Distributor and How Is It Different From a Points Distributor?
HEI (High Energy Ignition) replaces the breaker points and external coil found in original Mopar ignition systems with a magnetic trigger and a high-output internal coil built into the distributor cap. Because there are no points to wear down or gap over time, an HEI-style distributor holds ignition timing more consistently and doesn't require periodic point-gap adjustment. If your vehicle currently has a factory points-style distributor, this unit replaces both the distributor and the ignition coil in one part.
Ballast Resistor and 12V Charging System Requirements
Factory Mopar points-style ignition systems often used a ballast resistor to limit voltage to the coil during normal running. This distributor's internal coil is designed to run on full battery voltage, so an active ballast resistor left in the circuit will cause it to run too cold, leading to weak spark or misfires. The ballast resistor should be removed or bypassed as part of installation, and the vehicle must have a 12-volt charging system with an alternator — this unit will not operate correctly on a 6-volt or generator-based charging system.
Performance Benefit
The 65,000-volt internal coil delivers stronger spark output than a factory points-style distributor, supporting easier cold starts and more consistent spark across the RPM range. The magnetic trigger holds timing accurately without the wear and drift that accumulates in points-based systems over time. Mechanical and vacuum advance are both included, with a vacuum advance adjustment tool shipped in the box so the advance curve can be tuned for your specific engine and driving conditions.
COMPATIBLE WITH
CHRYSLER SMALL BLOCK "LA" V8
• 4.5L / 273 in³
• 5.2L / 318 in³
• 5.6L / 340 in³
• 5.9L / 360 in³
NOTES
• Fits Chrysler/Mopar LA small block V8 engines (273, 318, 340, and 360).
• HEI design with internal coil — no external coil or ignition box required.
• Not compatible with Magnum 5.2L or 5.9L engines (1992 and newer) — Magnum engines require a different distributor.
• The 360 was used in passenger cars through 1980 only; truck/van applications continued through 1992.
• Designed for carbureted ignition systems only.
• This distributor is designed for a 12 volt electrical system with an alternator.
• It is not compatible with a generator and cannot be used with a ballast resistor.
• Distributor gear compatibility should be verified with camshaft material before installation.
COMMON VEHICLE APPLICATIONS
Plymouth Valiant / Dodge Dart (273, 1964–1969; 318, 1967–1976; 340, 1968–1973; 360, 1974–1976)
Plymouth Barracuda / Dodge Challenger (273, 1964–1969; 318, 1970–1974; 340, 1970–1973; 360, 1971–1974)
Plymouth Duster / Dodge Demon (318, 1971–1976; 340, 1971–1973; 360, 1974–1976)
Plymouth Road Runner / Satellite / GTX (318, 1968–1975; 340, 1971–1973; 360, 1974–1975)
Dodge Charger / Plymouth Fury (318, 1967–1978; 340, 1968–1973; 360, 1971–1978)
Dodge Diplomat / Plymouth Volare / Chrysler Cordoba (318, 1975–1989; 360, 1975–1980)
Dodge Ramcharger / Plymouth Trail Duster (318, 1974–1992; 360, 1974–1980)
Dodge D/W-Series Trucks (273, 1965–1969; 318, 1967–1991; 360, 1971–1992)
Dodge B-Series Vans (318, 1967–1991; 360, 1971–1992)
Dodge Li'l Red Express (360 EH1, 1978–1979)
SPECIFICATIONS
Trigger Type: Magnetic
Advance Type: Mechanical and Vacuum
Color: Available in Black, Blue, Red, Orange
Terminal Gender: Male
Mechanical Tach Drive: No
Rotation Direction: Clockwise
Slip Collar: No
Coil Included: Yes
Coil Type: Internal
Coil Output: 65000 V
Housing Material: Machined Aluminum
Ignition Box Required: No
Marine Use: No
Cylinders: 8
Vacuum Advance Adjustment Tool: Included
Installation Instructions: Included
