When would I know that my ignition points need to be changed?

I know that the CSM says every 6000-10000 miles. But if it's earlier than that, are there indicators that I should just go ahead and do it anyway? I know that alot of us are not using our Olds' as daily drivers, so there is probably a lot more short trips meaning alot more starting, shutting off and starting again. Will that create more wear than normal and what should I look/listen for?

 

Generally speaking lots of engine start cycles adds increasingly to points faulting. High humidity levels creates pitting, arcing, etc. between both sides of the contact points. Important to note: change the distributor contact points condenser any time you change the contact points. The condenser's role is to absorb attenuated high random arcing and rapidly collapse the electric field w/o hesitation adding to contact point longevity & a cleaner/smoother ignition profile.

 

Last car I had with points stopped running when they needed changing.

 

My last set had a little random skip or misfire running down the road. Changed out for new set, gapped and set dwell. No skip or bounce anymore. Now after 15k I am starting to get some of the funky running issue.

Pat

 

I would say every 5 years or 10,000 miles whichever occurs first.

 

That has been my experience as well.

 

Same here, Pat. I put new Standard Motor Products points and condenser in my 69 wagon just before setting out for Power Tour in June. On the way home from Lansing the car started to misfire. I nursed it home. Those points only had about 2700 miles on them but were pitted. I suspect the condenser crapped out. Replaced them with Accel, which seems to be surprisingly well made. Only have about 600 miles on the new set so far. I did score a few NORS US-made Blue Streak points/condenser sets from Craig at Carlisle.

 

New condensers can be questionable too. Might be better to reuse your vintage part.