Who rebuilds 1949 Flathead V8 distributors

[Trainman1]

I am looking for someone with a histroy of distributor rebuilding for my 1949 Ford flathead V8. Would appreciate any suggestions.

[rotorwrench]

Sad to say but we have already lost several of our Fordbarn distributor specialists. The caveat of the Load-O-Matic distributors is that the spark control spring tension varies by application and by year in some cases. There were at least three variations in basic design with some being cast iron and some being aluminum. Trucks used a lot of the cast iron 7RA types and then the Mercury started to use the aluminum version with the lower shaft pilot bearing journal for the 1950 and later models.

All are fairly easy to restore but a person may need a reamer when replacing the upper bushing. The vacuum spark control unit would likely need to be replaced if the diaphragm has deteriorated. I would reuse the spark control springs if they are serviceable and be sure to label them so they are reinstalled back in the same place. There is not a whole lot more to them other than the breaker points, condenser, rotor, and cap.

I've noticed that folks like C&G Ford parts that offer rebuilt units on exchange, now show that they are not available. This may be due to the lack of rebuilders at this time. A person might find an old rebuilt one on flea-pay if they know exactly what part number they need.

[1942deluxe]

I have a NOS 7RA-12127-C distributor which needs cleaned up some but everything still seems to move freely. Parts book says use with 8BA cover. PM me if you are interested and want pictures.

[52flthed]

Try Chucks Trucks in CT. (203) 288-2769. He’s detailed oriented and thorough in approach . I’ve asked more “poplar” go/to people about this exact issue. I’ve gotten some puzzling responses from them.

[Trainman1]

Thank you for your reply. The spark control springs are exactly my issue. Upper braker plate moves even on idle. Can't find anyone with those springs. My vacuum module is shot but I have found new one.

[Trainman1]

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Thank you, I have a good one, just need new set of springs.

[Joe B.]

'49 used a heavy and light spring. Late '50 went to both the same per the shop manual. The tension on the springs is adjustable by turning the posts with the eccentric base. See page 62 in your green bible. The springs pop up on ebay. I have some spares of the late '50 springs.

[paul2748]

Try Lee Johnson 812-598-8965. He rebuilds YBlock dsitributors, may do the earlier ones.

[jeepguy1948]

“Charlie” machines a small block Chevy distributor to work in a flathead. I’m very happy with mine. (He set’s up the curve for your motor)

[19Fordy]

Trainman: I sent you an email re: complete distributer.