MSD 2 step issue
 

I am running an MSD Digital 7 box and a FAST XFI 2.0 system in my Firebird.
The MSD is only being used for firing the coil and the 2 step.
I have the 2 step switch on the brake pedal and utilize an ON/OFF toggle switch to activate it on the starting line. I then flip the switch to OFF when I make the 1/2 shift.
Sunday, the two step activated during the burnout when the toggle switch was in the OFF position. The two step went to 3500 RPM which is where it was set. As this happened once before, I had the MSD dial switch connected in the car and was able to set the 2 step to 8000 to essentially de-activate it. I was able to save the run by leaving on the footbrake w/o the 2 step.
After the first occurrence earlier this year, I re-wired the circuit and installed new switches (toggle and pedal).
Anyone have a similar experience? How could the 2 step circuit be activated w/o power to the switch?
Also, the 2 step stays active when no pressure applied to the brake pedal.
Any help is appreciated.
Thanks,
John

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

Eliminate the on/off toggle switch and wire it so it activates when the button on the brake petal is pushed, as MSD recommends. Two wires, no more problems! Jim


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Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

Thanks Jim. I'll do as you suggested as I don't see any other options with my current configuration. I'm still perplexed as to how the MSD will intermittently activate without power to the circuit. MSD tech has no answer. They did suggest I could send the box in for testing....but indicated due to it's obsolete status, they could not repair it. Rather absurd suggestion. That advise was after waiting 35 minutes on hold on the tech line.
Thanks again Jim. The toggle switch comes out tomorrow.
John

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

If you eliminate the on/off toggle switch what happens when you activate the brake pedal switch down track?

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

If he`s not going through the brake light switch and with a button in the pedal, slap the brake in a spot next to the button. Either that, activate the 2 step and dump your opponent big time!

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

I wouldn't be good enough to remember to step on the peddle beside the switch. I'm guessing it wouldn't be good to activate the 3500 rev limiter at 7000 but maybe it wouldn't do much at all.

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

Hi,

This almost too easy................

Mount a N/O (normally open) switch that is activated only in 1st gear...

Wire it through the pedal switch, through the shifter switch and then the 2-step......

I don't know what shifter you use but it is pretty easy with a shifter mounted switch....Worst case would be to mount it against the shift arm at the transmission.....

Take a look and figure out what works best.....

Anything that can make a racecar idiot proof is worth the effort...

Just sayin'
Bob

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

That's what I'd do but my shifter doesn't get moved after the burnout until I'm done with the run. ;) I'll just put a toggle switch on the dash by the steering wheel. Same place as my Camaro.

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

You have a PM.......................

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

I never put a of/on switch on the two step, normally I set them on about 700lbs brake pressure thinking that if you put 700lbs pressure on the brakes at wide open throttle you will probably wreck anyway. Of course if you are using a manual switch on the brake pedal this doesn't apply, I always use an adjustable pressure switch installed in a brake line.

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

Hi Bob, I didn't get it. Thanks.

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

Does MSD manufacture in China?
Thanks
Mike A114
P/SA

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

In America...almost all in El Paso, TX.

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

I had a new MSD coil tagged made in China, shocked to say the least.

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

My bad......

That PM was for John.....

Bob

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

I have my two step wired like you do. One wire thru a toggle switch next to my shifter and connected to my brake lite switch, which is adjustable. I have hundreds of runs on it with no problem. The only way it could activate with the switch off is if the wire shorted to ground before your toggle switch.

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

Or a ground feed back activation.

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

Hello All.
Since my original post( last June), I changed the MSD box (Digital 7) and the intermittent 2 step problem went away.
I contacted MSD several times and they said the old box could not be repaired.
I left the on/off switch in place as I have become comfortable with it as part of my routine.

John

Re: MSD 2 step issue
 

This question is for Mr .Parker, what kind of pressure switch are you talking about and where could one be purchased?, Thanks