So I have one question for now and I'm sure more later. This Grid is a friend's and was purchased in 2014 and sat in the box. Do these ever need firmware updates if that is even possible?

Yes.

To update your MSD Grid (PN 7730) firmware, download and install the latest version of the MSD View Software.

https://www.holley.com/support/resources/

Select IGNITION tab on the page.

Thank you.

HERE'S a short help article for first time Grid users.

Thanks Mark.

I looked at the build date and it's 2019 not 2014.

Anyone had a grid be bad out of the box? This thing will not even idle when you start it. It's not mine but I did help with the settings.

^^^^^The 7730 will trigger either the 7720 or Legacy ignition to produce spark. If it’s sparking at the plugs it’s doing what it’s commanded to do.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found racers that have the wrong plug wires on the wrong cylinder. And those that have rotor phasing incorrect when using a crank trigger.

Using the laptop you can use the Monitor legend (right side) and Monitor Plot Screen (Data Acquistion / Monitor Plot) to troubleshoot.

Would a distributor that isn't locked out cause it to miss and pop?

Are you using 7730 with 7720, or are you using a Legacy ignition? If Legacy, what model?

7AL2

In Settings/ General the Ignition Type needs to be set to 6al/7al.

I would/ You could try doing a data acquisition while running and look at the ignition IN/OUT and timing channels in the RE-View of it.

Theoretically using a centrifical advance should work if timing set correctly and Grid programmed correctly……..But

My opinion is….. if you’re using an advance distributor with 7730 you’re defeating the ignition timing features in Grid.

One last thought. If Grid +/- is not wired directly to the battery, it’s best to be. If you have an alternator try removing the belt. If using an electronic master disconnect, try bypassing it.

Ignition setting was set for the 7al.

Next chance I get I will look at the I/O and timing in re-view.

I agree with not using a centrifugal advance but that is how he runs his cars and had it in. He has a locked out distributor that I want him to put in to try. I would prefer he run a crank trigger but he probably won't.

I will check his wiring. Thanks for the thoughts.

quote:

Originally posted by CURTIS REED:
Would a distributor that isn't locked out cause it to miss and pop?

This missing and popping during idle resembles possible spark scatter in the distributor. Check the play on the rotor.

quote:

Originally posted by markemark:

quote:

Originally posted by CURTIS REED:
Would a distributor that isn't locked out cause it to miss and pop?

This missing and popping during idle resembles possible spark scatter in the distributor. Check the play on the rotor.

Pre and post install of grid the engine runs perfectly.

^^^^^Be more specific. If not Pre/Post, When if ever does this missing and popping occur?

Can i ask a few questions?
1. Under "settings", what is your maximum timing reference?

2. Under "ignition timing" what does your ignition timing look like? IE a straight line at XX degrees, or do you have it adding/subtracting timing?

Joe

Sorry I thought that made sense.

Engine ran perfect before install and runs perfect after removal.

quote:

Originally posted by sr4440:
Can i ask a few questions?
1. Under "settings", what is your maximum timing reference?

2. Under "ignition timing" what does your ignition timing look like? IE a straight line at XX degrees, or do you have it adding/subtracting timing?

Joe

Max was set at 40°

Straight line. We tried it pulling 4° (ignition timing 36°) and then we zeroed the ignition timing box. Same outcome.

Sounds like what you are experiencing is very possibly self-inflicted. I’d switch to the locked-out distributor without Grid and set timing to Max (35 -40*) and get it to run. Then install Grid and report your results.

I’ve taken several Grids that racers said didn’t work in their cars, plug into my car, load my program and make a normal pass. This proved my install works and their problem is somewhere in their install, not in Grid 7730.

I’ve seen bad main 7730 wiring harnesses as well, usually with no spark, but don’t rule anything out.