Timing an "A" with a "B" Distributor
 

Anyone have tips on how I can properly time my A motor with a B distributor? A "B" front cover is not an option, as this is going into an early '28 chassis and I really don't want to hack up the pristine front cross member to convert to the late 28-31 motor mount & "B" cover.

Thanks in advance,

Gary

Re: Timing an "A" with a "B" Distributor
 

I timed mine the same as a standard a distributor then after a test run advanced it a bit and its running like a top. Its an original 29 engine with standard A everything and a B distributor.

Re: Timing an "A" with a "B" Distributor
 

You can see the piston come to TDC throw the spark plug hole with a light.
I find it to be much faster then using the plug.

Re: Timing an "A" with a "B" Distributor
 

I don't think you have to hack up anything to fit a B timing cover, I had a later one on an early frame before . Have a look at Vince Falters Ford Garage site; Timing covers

John Cochran

Re: Timing an "A" with a "B" Distributor
 

That's true, but the 1928 cover does have more support for the wide solid mounts on each side of the crankshaft. The support ledge was reduced for the later yoke/spring front mount.

Re: Timing an "A" with a "B" Distributor
 

hmmm i thought there was a 19* difference !

Re: Timing an "A" with a "B" Distributor
 

Okay I understand running a B timing cover with a B cam but why In the world with an original A cam. Its TDC has not changed and fires like original. It just doesn't make sense.

Re: Timing an "A" with a "B" Distributor
 

:confused:
I didn't see an A cam mentioned, but the A and B distributor cams are timed the same. The advantage of the B cam is it has more dwell for a hotter spark.

Re: Timing an "A" with a "B" Distributor
 

I know it wasn't mentioned Tom but the only reason I could see running a B cover on an A would be to match a B cam. Ive put A and B distributors on model As and even non ford cars and timing them is easier than any other distributor than ive worked on.

Re: Timing an "A" with a "B" Distributor
 

Hey guys, I apologize for not being more clear...please go easy on me as my build is not 'stock'. I'm going to run a Winfield head, SR carb, and a Stipe 3/4 cam (model A regrind). The main reason for going with the B distributor is to take advantage of the mechanical advance.

Re: Timing an "A" with a "B" Distributor
 

Like I said in my earlier post ive got a rebuilt B dizzy on my A and it works great. Timing set just like a standard a.

Re: Timing an "A" with a "B" Distributor
 

http://www.fordgarage.com/pages/timingcovers.htm

Model B

Use your pin to set #1 piston to top dead center and mark the pulley so it lines up with an add on timing pin. Measure the crank pulley diameter and calculate its diameter. 5.25" x 3.14 = 16.485" then 19°/360° x 16.485" = .87" This gives you the measurement for the pulley mark that will represent 19° advance.

19° BTDC + the cent. adv. should give about 33° of total advance.