B distributor in an A

[Mike/Nebraska]

What all is involved in using a Model B distributor in my A? Do I have to use anything else specific to the swap? Condenser, power source, etc. I'm using a B head and wate rpump.

[Charlie Stephens]

In order to be able to time the engine "by the book" you need a Model B timing gear cover. I always use the Model A condenser by modifying it to go into the Model B distributer. The hole in the tab at the bottom of the Model A condenser is elongated and the condenser is inserted into the Model B distributer. A pig tail wire is need to connect the condenser. See picture.The Model A has an armored cable going to the distributer. This is replaced with a single wire since the "theft deterrent" on a Model B is in the locking steering column. I believe this is going to require you to replace the ignition switch.

Charlie Stephens

[Ian in Mississauga]

Mike, do you have a model B timing gear cover? If not, do a search here on fordbarn. If you are not sure which cover you have, search Vince Falter's web site. Sorry I can't be more helpful, I am running with just the opposite situation so I know that corrections can be made to run with a miss-matched set-up.

[Synchro909]

Others might correct me here but I believe the B motor doesn't need as much advance as the A motor so the B distributor doesn't advance as far as a stock A motor requires. If you have a high compression head and/or modified camshaft, you are probably bringing your A motor closer to B specs and so may not need as much advance. In that case, the B distributor might be fine.
I am about to put a B dizzy on an A motor myself but with a 5.5:1 head and improved cam. I plan on fitting one of those timing scales at the front pulley and timing to engine in the usual way. I'll take it out and try to made it ping. I'll keep advancing the timing little by little till it does ping, then I'll back it off. At that point, I'll note the reading on the scale and use that any time in the future I need to redo it.
I'm going to follow this thread!

[Mike/Nebraska]

can I getby by using the timing scale on the front pulley to time it alright?

[CWPASADENA]

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Originally Posted by Mike/Nebraska

can I getby by using the timing scale on the front pulley to time it alright?

Yes, This is probably a better way to time your engine anyway.


You need to set the timing on a relative stock A engine to about 30 deg. at 2000 RPM.


My opinion,


Chris W.

[Growley bear]

I use a B head and water pump with B distributor and camshaft and "A" timing gears and cover with a timing scale on the crank pulley. I use a self powered timing light and this setup has performed quite well for many years.

[nick c]

Yes use a degree indicator that bolts to the front of engine and a timing lite. The model B distributor at idle it will be set at about 15*btdc, it can only advance about 15* more at 2500 rpm"s which equals about 30* full advance at the crank. For more info on this go to the Ford Garage and read.
carry on

[Mike/Nebraska]

picked up a B timing cover so I should be good to go