Distributor lower shaft, offset?
 

I pulled my lower distributor shaft out while I have the head off doing some work. I noticed something unexpected. The slots are offset from one another. This seemed odd to me so I looked at several Model A parts vendors and the ones they all sell are not offset like this and the slots are more aligned. What gives? Why would my lower shaft be like this?


https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attac...1&d=1752268438

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attac...1&d=1752268438

Re: Distributor lower shaft, offset?
 

They are offset. It’s hard to see the offset, on the online pictures I looked at!

Re: Distributor lower shaft, offset?
 

Mine is 90 degrees offset, not just a small amount

Re: Distributor lower shaft, offset?
 

Here is a pic of the one Snyder's sells for comparison

https://www.fordbarn.com/forum/attac...1&d=1752268491

https://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/4...6363&cat=41666

Re: Distributor lower shaft, offset?
 

It appears that you all are talking two different features. Sound like the OP is talking radial relationship of the top slot to the bottom slot. The response refers to the off-center slot location.
The OP should have no concern with the radial slot locations as it is of no consequence.

Joe B

Re: Distributor lower shaft, offset?
 

I believe that the originals were aligned or "clocked" the same. Not having them that way hurts nothing as it is compensated for when you set your timing by adjusting the rotor in the distributor.
I think the attached drawing is how they were originally made

Re: Distributor lower shaft, offset?
 

I agree with Phil - doesn't make any difference, you adjust to compensate when you set the timing. Keep in mind that if you carry a spare pre-timed distributor, that distributor MUST be used with the lower shaft it was timed with.