A very simple timing question.
 

Please don't laugh to much as this rather simple question that an old guy is to lazy to find out for himself.

If a person sets the timing for one Model A engine, can you take that distributor and use it in another Model A engine and have it in time?

I know a simple question that everyone knows but me and I am to lazy to move one distributor from one of my A's to the other to get my answer. Thus I don't mind embarrassing myself and ask you all.

Re: A very simple timing question.
 

It could be possible if the oil pump drive gear is indexed the same ---and the gear teeth of the cam and drive gear are machined the same, but the answer is NO

Re: A very simple timing question.
 

Thanks guys, guess I should not be so lazy and get to work and get that other distributor timed for my huckster.

Re: A very simple timing question.
 

Also what are the chances the other vehicles #1 cylinder is exactly at top dead center when you do drop in the timed distributor. So it's definitely a no to that question.

Re: A very simple timing question.
 

This could be a Ford Barn FIRST!----- EVERYONE AGREED!!!
Bill W.

Re: A very simple timing question.
 

Re: A very simple timing question.
 

Happy to be of service to the old Barn!

Re: A very simple timing question.
 

1930 Coupe-
my set up does not have the spring shown above the distributor string- Am I missing something?

Re: A very simple timing question.
 

I think it is inside your valve cover.

Re: A very simple timing question.
 

Thanks - I neglected to think about the access location of the spring.

Re: A very simple timing question.
 

Ok to add more to this simple question.......you can use any distributer body with any engine, yes?
In other words no drive gears are changed from the engines.

Re: A very simple timing question.
 

I think this is correct. But some of the other guys that know more about this than I do may give you more info on it.

Re: A very simple timing question.
 

Vermins' engine with "maybe" 40 miles on it, was built by a reputable builder in 1987, here in Fresno.
It has NO SPRING on the drive gear housing. It seems to be staked/secured somehow??? I put one on! ALSO, the oil pump locating dowel was PEENED over & the oil pump DIDN'T fall out, AFTER I went to ALL the work to make up a ZIPPY retainer!!!
"MAYBE" this was a common practice by rebuilders, WAY BACK THEN???
When I get Vermin DRIVING, I'll go by the builder & check on the EXTENDED WARRANTY:D I haven't started the engine for 2 years, but it ran like a FINE TUNED SEWING MACHINE;)
BILL W.