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Old 08-28-2017, 01:36 PM   #1
tiger.1000
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Default Model B distributor oil leak

I have a minor but annoying oil leak where the base of the distributor joins the cylinder head on my 32 Model B.

If I slide a feeler gauge under the base of the distributor it reads 0.015". If I make up a gasket to fill that gap is it likely to solve the problem ?
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Old 08-28-2017, 01:47 PM   #2
DavidG
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Default Re: Model B distributor oil leak

As all of mine have no gap, I'll ask the dumb question. Have you loosened the check nut and set screw and tried to lower the distributor housing to eliminate the gap. The land on the distributor housing where the set screw touches is large enough to permit some up and down movement of the housing.

Otherwise, yours in an uncommon problem and will require an unusual remedy, namely a gasket as you mention.
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Old 08-28-2017, 02:01 PM   #3
tiger.1000
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Default Re: Model B distributor oil leak

David,

Thank you....the 3/8" UNF screw that secures the distributor body in the head is a precision fit and allows no vertical movement of the distributor. Under the distributor body is a thin steel shim.Is that Henry Ford or a modification? As a precautionary measure I have made and fitted a gasket....time will tell !
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Old 08-28-2017, 02:39 PM   #4
DavidG
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Default Re: Model B distributor oil leak

David,

The shim is a post-production, non-Ford addition. There should be no gap requiring either a shim or gasket. Something is amiss and unfortunately there are a fair number of possibilities ranging from a faulty head casting to an overly-long oil pump shaft all of which aren't worth the trip to determine the culprit if a gasket stops the leak.
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Old 08-28-2017, 02:59 PM   #5
tiger.1000
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Default Re: Model B distributor oil leak

Thanks David,

Next non rainy day I'll take it out for a spin and keep you informed
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Old 08-28-2017, 03:14 PM   #6
Bob C
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Default Re: Model B distributor oil leak

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Also looks like a lot of thread showing on the set screw, the ones I have are almost
flush with the nut.

Bob
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Old 08-28-2017, 03:16 PM   #7
V8COOPMAN
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Default Re: Model B distributor oil leak

Quote:
Originally Posted by tiger.1000 View Post
Thanks David,

Next non rainy day I'll take it out for a spin and keep you informed
Ha.......THIS is a rainy day in Houston.....yesterday, in fact! DD



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