Swap Advice into '93 Mustang - DIS or Distributor

[crono61]

Hey I'm working on swapping my '88TC engine into my '93 Mustang. I had been preparing to follow Stinger's writeup and do all of the wiring mods for the distributor/VAM, but I just got a good deal on a PiMP (bye bye VAM!). I'm about to install the timing belt assembly on the TC engine on the stand, but now I'm trying to decide whether to go DIS or use the distributor. Target power goal is ~300-350hp. AFAIK there are three options:

1. Use the '93 DIS - much less wiring changes, but I think this would involve drilling/tapping the block for the crank sensor? I heard there's a drilling template floating around. I guess I'd have to strip a few things from the NA engine? I'm keeping the TC single plug head, not sure if that makes this easier or harder? I really don't know if I want to drill and tap the block...

2. Use the '88TC distributor setup - I'd have to do the wiring changes in the writeup, but I've already purchased new cap/rotor/wires/coil and I think it's a simpler system and will easily support my power goals.

3. Buy a Stinger's CAS to use with the DIS setup (or maybe another trigger wheel type system?).

Pros/cons/thoughts/suggestions?

Thanks!

[Stinger]

You've got the options correct. Deciding between the first two is basically deciding if you're more comfortable with wiring or drilling/tapping.

The third option is obviously more expensive but easier from a wiring and mechanical standpoint.

[crono61]

Thanks for the response Stinger.

I would definitely be more comfortable doing the wiring changes to run the distributor vs. drilling/tapping the block.

Looking into the CAS a bit more, would it be a simple integration to the rest of the DIS system? Everything I see on the product page is about replacing the distributor/TFI, or running aftermarket coils. I assume using the CAS with the DIS components/wiring from the '93 NA motor would be relatively straightforawrd (and would mean I wouldn't need to modify the block)?

[wesk]

There is nothing about Ford DIS that is compatible with the CAS. Ford DIS is still a single input from the ECU. From a ECU standpoint it is more consistant with a standard distributor. The CAS would be more wiring, not less.

[crono61]

I was just thinking that instead of drilling and tapping the block for the crank sensor I could use the CAS as the position sensor for the DIS system. I'm comfortable with wiring (moreso than drilling and tapping the block).

I think I've decided to just go ahead with the TFI/distributor.

[Stinger]

The CAS won't work with the DIS module as the module expects a different signal than the CAS puts out. So that's not an option unless you're ditching the DIS module entirely.