XenonZcar.com - Nissan PRW-2 Ignition Upgrade - S130 models
This guide pertains to a key ignition component that goes by several names:
- Power Transistor Unit
- Ignition Control Module
- Ignitor Chip
- Ignition Transistor
This is the transistor responsible for charging and discharging the ignition coil. It is commonly found on distributor-equipped Nissan vehicles.
PRW-2 Interchange:
- INFINITI – M30 (1990–1991)
- NISSAN – ALTIMA (1993–1997)
- NISSAN – AXXESS (1990–1992)
- NISSAN – D21 PICKUP (1990–1994)
- NISSAN – MAXIMA (1989–1994)
- NISSAN – NX (1991–1993)
- NISSAN – PATHFINDER (1987–1995)
- NISSAN – PICKUP (1995–1996)
- NISSAN – PULSAR NX (1989–1990)
- NISSAN – SENTRA (1989–1994)
- NISSAN – STANZA (1990–1992)
The unit you will be sourcing should resemble the one shown below:
(This is a PRW-2, but the PRW-1A looks very similar.)
On the Z31 harness, the PTU is located on the driver-side strut tower, behind the headlight, where the main ignition components are positioned.
This is likely what your installed unit looks like.
Installation
The PRW-2 is nearly plug-and-play, but not quite. The newer PRW-2 requires a minor modification: two wires must be swapped in the Z31 harness. Below is the step-by-step process:
-
Remove the black housing clip on the back of the Z31 harness grey connector. This exposes the seals at the back of the wires.
- Do not poke or disturb the seals.
- You only need to remove the black clip to allow access for wire removal.
- Swap the black wire with the green/white wire. This is the only necessary modification.
-
To remove a wire, insert a safety pin into the small rectangular slot above the contact pin head from the inside of the connector.
- Lay the pin flat along the top of the contact and slide it in gently until it stops.
- Do not force the pin — just apply light downward pressure while gently pulling the wire from the back.
- Avoid generic pin removal tools — they are too bulky, flimsy, or short for this connector.
After swapping the wires, you can connect the PRW-2. Ensure it's mounted in a location that offers good metal-to-metal contact for proper heat sinking.
Benefits
Upgrading to the PRW-2 ignition control module offers several benefits:
- Smoother idle due to more consistent spark delivery.
- Quicker throttle response thanks to the faster switching transistor.
- Increased reliability as PRW-2 units are newer and more widely available.
- Growing support from aftermarket suppliers offering plug-in sub harnesses to simplify installation.
As original parts become increasingly scarce, this modification is becoming a go-to solution for Z-car enthusiasts and restorers alike.
Sources Used
- Written by: Careless
- Images by Careless, Z_Karma, TearingRave, Rockauto.com