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Old 07-10-2020, 12:22 PM   #1
masipopa
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Default Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

Hello experts,

I'm not very experienced so please be gentle with your answers.

I have pretty worn out old style Ford Model A distributor with a condenser and a main ignition coil that probably are bad as I don't get consistent sparks.

Do you think I should just buy a new 'old style' condenser in current old distributor or replace with a new distributor and if a new distributor which one is better - this one :

New Distributor with Modern Upper Plate with Wireless Lower Plate 1928-1931
https://www.mikes-afordable.com/product/A12100ML.html

or this one
1928-31 Model A Ford Distributor - New - Modern Upper Plate
https://www.ecklers.com/1928-31-mode...8-20920-1.html

or something else.

Also for the main ignition coil I have Regitar USA model RA1115 for 12V. Which one to replace it with ?
Model A Ford Ignition Coil - Replacement Type
https://www.ecklers.com/model-a-ford...8-20890-1.html

Also if you could explain about ignition coils. Are there any differences between 6V and 12V coils and are coils specific for Model A because there are many coils and they look all the same.
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Last edited by masipopa; 07-10-2020 at 01:02 PM.
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Old 07-10-2020, 12:37 PM   #2
1930artdeco
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

Welcome,


Not an expert but, replace the condenser with a burn proof one get new original points and far as the coil goes get newer 6 volt one. I am assuming your bushing are still good.


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Old 07-10-2020, 01:01 PM   #3
Purdy Swoft
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

Ifyou choose to go the original route I would use the short proof condenser from A&L ,Most good model A parts vendors handle them . A modern style condenser can be connected to the switch side of the coil . The red wire connects to the switch side of the coil . Then remove the original condenser and it should be good to go . I prefer a three OHM coil for a twelve volt system . No resister will be needed when a three OHM coil is used . The original six volt style coil can be used but a resister will be needed at the coil connections . I use the three OHM , epoxy filled Pertronix flamethrower coil . This performance coil gives a boost in power that usually can be felt but looks like any other replacement coil . I think that my coil was around forty dollars or so and I feel well worth the price .
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Old 07-10-2020, 01:37 PM   #4
Patrick L.
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

Regarding the coil, what Purdy said.
Most coils today are oil filled and don't like it when they are tipped upside down, therefore epoxy filled as he mentioned is best for that.

Most folks prefer the original type points and plate.
I don't have a problem with the modern upper plate as long as it is wired. The wireless ones are problematic. Its harder to set/adjust the points on the modern plate unless an adjust slot is drilled/filed into it.
The quality of the modern points and condensers today is horrible. It pays to buy the expensive ones.

The main concern for the housing would be the condition of the bushings. If the bushing are getting 'sloppy' either they can be replaced and reamed to size, or, rebuilt housings or whole distributors are readily available.
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Old 07-10-2020, 01:37 PM   #5
30 Closed Cab PU
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

Many are not fond of MACS/Ecklers.


Berts is known for their parts, new and used, and stand behind what they sell. They refurbish/rebuild their own distributors. I had wireless nurex plates and had to replace the plates with original wired plates. The mechanical/electrical connection caused strange issues.
Here is their rebuilt original design, I believe you can ask them to install other designs. There is an additional $35 core charge, you return your old one. They will ship you the rebuilt one. They charge you the core charge, and you get a core charge refund when they receive the old one.
https://modelastore.com/electrical/d...roduct_id=4196

Modern uppers are OK, but if using modern points you may need to use Brattons point block to get the points arm contact and the point block contacts to align properly.
https://www.brattons.com/machined-di...int-block.html

Condenser, call the vendor, ask if it is a short proof A and L. There seems to be a high out of the box new failure rate on others. A and Ls are pretty good, but you can still get a new bad one.

A 6 volt coil has internal resistance of 1.5 ohms across the small wiring posts. It can be used on 12v if a 1.5 ohm series ballast resistor is added.

A 12v coil has an internal resistance across the wiring posts of 3 ohms.

Snyder's, Brattons, Mikes, Berts are all reputable vendors specializing pretty much on Model As. There are others. Sticking with these vendors get you the best service, stand behind their product, answer questions since they specialize.

Welcome to the Barn.
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Old 07-10-2020, 02:16 PM   #6
chrs1961815
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

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As someone who rebuilds distributors here, I would stick with the original setup with the shortproof condenser available from most of the suppliers.

Btw, welcome to the barn. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
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Old 07-10-2020, 02:25 PM   #7
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

CHRS - besides distributors, do you have other services/rebuild, etc?
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Old 07-10-2020, 05:03 PM   #8
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

Purdy, Is this the coil you recommended

https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/...611/10110649-P
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Old 07-10-2020, 08:27 PM   #9
30 Closed Cab PU
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

That is a 3 ohm coil for a 12 volt system.
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Old 07-11-2020, 10:15 AM   #10
katy
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

masipopa, are you running 6 volt or 12 volt?
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Old 07-11-2020, 11:06 AM   #11
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

I have GOOD luck with RENNER’s rebuilt distributors both stock and modern points.
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Old 07-11-2020, 11:37 AM   #12
Purdy Swoft
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

Quote:
Originally Posted by masipopa View Post
Purdy, Is this the coil you recommended

https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/...611/10110649-P
I use the Pertronix flame thrower 40.000 volt three OHM coil , Part number 40611 epoxy . I use this with a twelve volt system and no resistor is needed . I also use original style points . This setup has worked well for me and has been very dependable .
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Old 07-11-2020, 12:54 PM   #13
Jeff/Illinois
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

Quote:
Originally Posted by chrs1961815 View Post
As someone who rebuilds distributors here, I would stick with the original setup with the shortproof condenser available from most of the suppliers.
.
That is the route I would go too. An A&L condensor and the original point setup. The originals are so much easier to set the point gap than the 'modern' type.

I had a modern type setup, it was OK, but I took it off after a couple years and went back to original. I like that better it was a good design.

Welcome masipopa and don't be afraid to ask questions here, 98% of the guys are very helpful and kind. You'll be treated OK
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Old 07-11-2020, 01:43 PM   #14
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Default Re: Question about distributor/condenser for Ford Model A - 1930

My recommendation is that the ignition on a Model A Ford be retained as Henry designed it. Over five million Model A's roamed the planet with it and it worked just fine. The condensers developed by A&L are highly recommended. All the suppliers carry them. The are identifiable by the three stake marks on the grounding strap. I have never seen one fail. The next important item on a Model A distributor is the fine multi-strand wire that connects the lower plate to the upper plate. I have taken hundreds of distributors apart and often find everything but the correct wire. The wire moves every time you move the spark control lever and the wire must have the ability to move smoothly with it. A properly rebuilt Model A distributor will give many years and miles of good service.

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