I'm considering on getting a MSD rpm switch for my MEVI when it arrives later in the month. The MSD rpm switch (linked below) uses plug in rpm "pills" to set the switch rpm. The rpm switch is $55 and a set of 5000-5800rpm pills is $22.

http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?part=2457',650,505,'MSD8950');

I noticed MSD also sells a rpm module that plugs into the rpm switch and it allows for "on the roll" adjustment from 4600-6800rpms via a dial. This would add a slight "coolness" factor and would allow for quick tuning on the dyno and at the track.

http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?part=629',650,505,'MSD8671');

Overall, the cost of this setup is about $55 more than just buying Harlan's RPM switch. The reason I'm hesitant to order from Harlan is because it takes 5-7 weeks to get the switch...if you're lucky. He took 8 weeks to ship my shiftlight. I've run MSD equipment on my 94 Z28 and never had problems. What do you guys think?


Dave

 

Overall a Rpm Switch is an Rpm Switch so if cost isn't a factor for you go for it. I've bought 2 Harlan Rpm Switches and it only took ~2 weeks to get them, and I ordered in advance so that wasn't a problem. The nice thing about the Harlan is you don't have to waste time with carrying/changing pills, but that dial would resolve that problem.
Now decide if you have the time to wait, or if you need the switch just spend the extra $55.
-hype

 

Also consider that other rpms were tried and the 5,000 rpm switch over was found to be best. So I don't think the adjustable one is needed.

 

I just pordered my switch and it took five days to arrive on my doorstep. I was prepared to wait and was pleasantly surprised at the quick arrival.

BTW, there is a lot of RPM pills up for bid on ebay. The person had like seven of them and the bid was only at $12.50 last night (Monday night).
DL

 

The rpm module that allows "on the roll" adjustments sounds spiffy. The only drawback I can see is that with the above system you still have to rev the motor pretty high to test if it works. This is just a personal preference for myself as I hate reving the motor that high with no load on it. With the harlan switch I can set it to 2,300 rpm, give the throttle a little push and confirm that it's working. I'm not familiar with the MSD rpm switch and don't know if they offer any "pills" for a lower rpm.

Of course with the summit racing vacuum canister I'm using it pulls the actuator back so hard it makes a "thwack" sound I can hear at 5,000 rpm inside the car.

 

I guess the only real advantage is that if other mods come along I want (NOS, SC), the quick adjustability would be nice. I could also experiment at the track vs the dyno. More stuff to fiddle with, right

BTW, what is the part number or name of the vacuum canister you got from Summit? I might as well order it while ordering the switch.


Dave

 

SUM-G1464 steel reservoir --- $33.95
This was the one I wanted to get but was on backorder.

SUM-G1460 Satin aluminum reservoir ---- $69.39 This one was available and is what I ordered.

I don't see where a aluminum reservoir is worth $36 dollars more than the steel one but that was all they had and I was in a rush. These reservoirs are BIG if you are concered with size. 5" diameter x 7" tall. I was able to mount mine underneath the battery tray and secure it using an existing threaded hole from where the stock air resonator bolted to. I did have to make a "U" shapped bracket from flat steel to mount the canister. It is out of sight to all but the most knowledgable eyes.

 

The MSD won't work right out of the box for our ignition system. Synki tried...You need to sent it back to MSD for custom modification. I believe Synki tried the RPM wire from the ECU and then he tired from one of the coil. In the end, the Harlen will be cheaper.

 

But will the Harlen unit work for our Max's right out of the box??????

 

I don't understand why the MSD switch won't work since MSD told me it works with all ignitions, but I'll take you word on it. Thanks. I went ahead and ordered the Harlan switch. He says I'll get it next week.


Dave

 

Speedtrip-
Those canisters are HUGE!!!! No wonder it makes a loud bang on switchover I don't know if I need something that big. Thanks though.

Ramius-
Yes, the Harlan units work with our ignitions. I have his shiftlight wired into my ECU. Install took about 15 minutes and it's easily adjustable.


Dave

 

When I ordered my Harlan RPM switch 2 weeks ago, he said it was in stock and would be shipped out in 3-4 days. I figured the reason I hadn't seen anything because of the 4th of July holiday.