Duraspark in Early Six-Newbie trying to clarify this upgrade

[Anonymous]

Hi, I've read all the posts about the problems with this. Do I have it right when I say that you can use a later distributer if you also switch to a later oil pump? Is the problem the hole in the distributor shaft, and not the shaft itself, as far as fitting in the block. I'm wanting to use a holley/weber carb. I was thinking about using a 68' 200 pump.


My car is a 62' fairlane w/170. Thanks, this site is one of my new favorites.

 

[MustangSix]

The problem is the size of the distributor shaft itself. Ford enlarged it in 1964 so early and late distributors will not interchange. The hole in the block is too small for the shaft to fit.

You could have the lower portion of the distributor shaft machined down, then switch to a later pump and driveshaft.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the reply/info. Looks like I might have to go that route, since I already have the carb.

 

[addo]

The 5/16" OP drive shaft is available new as a Clevite part from NAPA and the like. It's cheap.

Your other option besides the modded DII is the 1982-85 Australian ignition. Its shaft ouside is already the smaller dimension. The big advantage here is it's self-contained; no remote "module" like a Duraspark control box.

Cheers, Adam.

 

[Falcon62]

Before you go to all that effort, check the casting number on the side of your block. If it begins with C1 or C3, then you will probably have to follow Jack's recommendation. If it begins with C4 or higher, then you might have a later model block. Many people assume the engine is original, only to find out later it had been replaced by a previous owner.

 

[Anonymous]

Phil, that was some great advice. I looked at the numbers and the motor's a 65 200. Pulled the distributor to make sure. Everything ELSE on the car is original. The guy I bought the car from said it was a 200, but he was just going by the sticker on the air cleaner. I should have checked it out. Thanks for saving me all the hassle. Mike

 

[Falcon62]

You're welcome! 8)