I will be in the market for a distributor for a 396 BBC. I want reliability, low maintenance and it won't be going to the dragstrip. Street only. Since there are tons to choose from I've been asking around.

I've had a few tell me that the GM stock electronic distributor is a better/more efficient distributor then Mallory/MSD/Accel stuff. Does that hold any water? I already had planned on doing MSD billet with the 6a ignition amplifier but I'm a little confused now.

Any input would be helpful on this. Thanks.

HEI!!!

Give this guy a call. Stock look with HEI performance.
http://www.davessmallbodyheis.com/

I run one of Dave's small body HEIs. I've been hearing that Dave can be difficult to reach, but I'm very happy with the results. HEI is nice because you can find replacement parts (modules, caps, and rotors) at any auto supply store. A Pertronix upgraded distributor might be my second choice. You narrow down the chances of finding replacement parts a bit, but many people run them and seem quite happy.

Hei

I have MSD's E-tronics. Great product. no springs or vacuum canisters. Just dial in the vacuum and advance curves on the distributor. Has a built in rev. limiter too. I got one of the first ones and its been perfect for about a year now.