Here's a link to the distributor comparison (love the tech articles!).
http://classicinlines.com/DizzyCompare.asp
Basically, a pertronics is more reliable long term than stock Load-O-Matic (unless you lose a magnet) but all the associated mechanisms are the same like vacuum advance. Upgrading to a DSII gets you mechanical advance, and there are articles on tuning that advance to fit your engine better. I've got one in the garage I'm looking forward to rebuild and toss in, with an HEI module, and I'm exploring hot coils.
EDIT: It's almost, but not quite a drop in upgrade, as the resistor in the ignition wire should (must?) be bypassed. as the article says, the wiring is the hardest part, though i think with the harness from the Fairmont, it should be a little easier.
http://classicinlines.com/DizzyCompare.asp
Basically, a pertronics is more reliable long term than stock Load-O-Matic (unless you lose a magnet) but all the associated mechanisms are the same like vacuum advance. Upgrading to a DSII gets you mechanical advance, and there are articles on tuning that advance to fit your engine better. I've got one in the garage I'm looking forward to rebuild and toss in, with an HEI module, and I'm exploring hot coils.
EDIT: It's almost, but not quite a drop in upgrade, as the resistor in the ignition wire should (must?) be bypassed. as the article says, the wiring is the hardest part, though i think with the harness from the Fairmont, it should be a little easier.