Ignition component relocation.
 

Is the function of the ignition system in a 1979 450SEL affected by the length of wire used in between components? Save for the coax cables and coil wire.
I'd like to relocate the ignition module out of the engine compartment.

Why relocate it?

because I want to.....anyhow my query was relating to the LENGTH of WIRE USED affecting the FUNCTION of the IGNITION SYSTEM.

Wire length shouldn't effect anything. I would recommend you go up 1 size on the wire size, but that is just me. The pickup coax could be a problem. Splicing coax can be kind of tricky. If you move the coil also, you don't want to run the coil wire in the same bundle as the other wires but keep it several inches from any other wiring. It can cross other wires at 90 deg but not parallel to any other wires.

Paul

Thanks Paul, I install two way radios for a living (part of it) so I am aware of the coax, the coil I don't imagine I'll move, but the Switch gear I need to relocate. The goal is to hide as much of the visible wiring in the engine compartment as much as possible, and that involves a lot of wire extending. I'll likely put the switchgear where the lambda controller would be on a D-jet car. My main concern was the fact that it is an electronic ignition system and was unsure if a change in resistance values, with added wire would effect anything.

I really don't think the wire length will make a difference. The increase in wire size mentioned was just to make sure there wouldn't be a problem. Just make sure the added wire is not smaller.

Just for an example the resistance of 14 gauge wire is 2.525 ohm per 1000 feet. I think that comes out to be .002525 ohm per foot. 16 gauge would be .004016 ohm per foot. Adding 10 feet of 16 gauge wire would only increase the resistance .04016 ohm. In automotive systems, that is nothing.

Paul

Just remember that that unit gets HOT & the aluminum housing is designed for heat dissipation.

Wiring length isn't important other than the "green lead"

Thank you for that bit of overlooked information, mbdoc
I do know that the resistors get EXTREMELY hot, so those will remain in the compartment, somewhere with airflow (on fan shroud with holes behind to draw air!) ICM might have to stay in the engine compartment, solely due to that heat factor....but will be well hidden..