The Pertronix Flame-Thrower stock-look cast distributor is a bolt-in ignition upgrade for Volkswagen Type 1 air-cooled flat-four engines. It keeps a factory cast-aluminum appearance while housing a built-in Ignitor module with a Hall Effect trigger, so it replaces points and keeps a stock look. This unit is a 12-volt negative-ground distributor with mechanical advance and no vacuum canister. It is a plug-and-play replacement for the original Type 1 distributor. Part number D186604.
- Series: Flame-Thrower stock-look cast, Type 1
- Trigger and module: Hall Effect pickup with built-in Ignitor module
- Voltage: 12-volt
- Ground: negative ground
- Advance: mechanical advance (non-vacuum)
- Cap: red
- Housing: cast aluminum, stock appearance
- Cylinders: 4 (air-cooled flat-four)
- Coil: not included; requires a compatible 12-volt coil
- Fits: Volkswagen Type 1 engine
- Sold as: each
- Part number: D186604
Vehicle Applications
- 1961-1966 Volkswagen Beetle (1.2L / 73 cu in flat-four)
- 1966 Volkswagen Beetle (1.3L / 78 cu in flat-four)
- 1967-1969 Volkswagen Beetle (1.5L / 92 cu in flat-four)
- 1970-1979 Volkswagen Beetle (1.6L / 97 cu in flat-four)
FAQ
Is this a 6-volt or 12-volt distributor?
It is a 12-volt negative-ground distributor. Pertronix offers a separate 6-volt version for early systems, so match the distributor to the vehicle's electrical system.
Does it have vacuum advance?
No. This unit uses mechanical advance only, with no vacuum canister.
Does it need a separate ignition box?
No. The Ignitor module is built into the distributor and fires the coil directly. A compatible 12-volt coil is sold separately.
What Volkswagen engines does it fit?
It fits Volkswagen Type 1 air-cooled flat-four engines, including Beetle applications from 1961 through 1979. Confirm the exact application with the Pertronix distributor lookup.
