I'm using the 8388 distributor on a 416 small block e-body 4 speed. My factory tach does not work with the 8388. It works right after the motor is started then fades away. I have a MSD 8728 rev limiter and want to know if it will work with the 8388 distributor ? I Would also like to know if I install the rev limiter, (if its compatible with the dist),will the tach work ? The distributor was purchased several years ago and doesn't have the built in rev limiter like the new ones do.
Thanks

You might call MSD & see if an adapter is required. is this dist a regular electronic type (like ours) as opposed to one with different electronic innards which is causing the incompatibility?

This is a HEI MSD distributor with a Blaster 2 coil, wired up with a ballast resister. I emailed MSD and their response was the rev limiter will work with the 8388 distributor. I was asked if the grey wire was hooked up to the negative side of the coil, which it is. There was no mention of an adapter to make the tach work. Guess I'll find out once the rev limiter is hooked up.
Thanks

I ran an MSD RTR in my small block bracket car for years. Great distributor (11:70's, 6500 RPM's). I was looking at the instructions. They have the usual disclaimer about "some" tachs but it says the 8388 has a built-in rev limiter. Maybe that's a newer feature. I sure don't remember that on my old one.

The new style MSD distributor (8388) has a built in rev limiter. Unfortunately I purchased mine before that option was available. Anyway I by passed the ballast resister (instructed by MSD)and hooked up the rev limiter tonight. The tach works at an idle and rev's to 3000 rpm's then drops to zero ! Sent the info to MSD and should have a response in the morning. I have another factory tach I'll test tomorrow.