Jeep - what is that thing under the hood?

[Moonliner]

I called in the heavy artillery. We should have our answer shortly....


Or even faster....

Originally Posted by Guy that knows ****

That's the ECU - the "Engine Control Unit". The unit converts the distributor's magnetic signal to the necessary signal to fire the coil. If it fails the jeep will not run. You can get a replacement at any major parts store by asking for the ignition control module. If you hook up an HEI (High Energy Ignition) system you will not need it at all and can get rid of it and all the associated wiring (aside from the main igition feed wire that will need to be hooked up to the HEI distributor).