Vacuum advance...

[Anonymous]

How do I test the vacuum advance on my '63 Falcon. It has the spark control valve andf the distributor with no mechanical advance. I sucked on the tube to the vacuum advance can and it would not hold vacuum or move the distributor plate.

I am fairly certain that means the diaphragm is bad, but I just want to be sure that means it is before I replace it, being as how I don't know much about this spark control valve (it's interesting, from reading the sticky at the top of the forum). I checked Advance and Autozone and neither can get a new vacuum advance for me. Both can get me a whole new distributor though (including vacuum advance can).

So, where do I go to get the vacuum advance for this? Is it worthwhile to spend the $150-200 to get a later model carb and distributor from the parts store to run a normal mechanical advance and regular v acuum advance?

The idea of getting this car is cheap, reliable, and economical transportation while I put the 460 in my Galaxie, so I'd rather not spend a bundle on something that isn't going to make a huge difference. But if I end up buying a whole distributor maybe it's worthwhile to get a mechanical advance type of distributor.

 

[CZLN6]

Howdy Cadunkle:

More information !!!! What year and size engine are you working with in the '63 Falcon? If it is a C3DE block you may be limited by the size of the hole in the block and distributor drive to what distributor you can use.

Check the block casting code on the passenger side of the block under the exhaust manifold and report it back here for deciphering.

Your checking the function of the diaphram by sucking on the hose is adequate. If it does not hold pressure it is a good indication the diaphram is bad. Make sure the hose is not cracked or otherwise faulty.

In the mean time try using 5 degrees more initial advance than your engine calls for in the specs.

Adios, David

 

[JackFish]

Is this the right part?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/NOS-FORD ... 2924QQrdZ1

I hope so, cause I just bought it! :| Sorry!
Maybe the guy has another one!

 

[Anonymous]

I believe Borg Warner part #V310 is the correct replacement for the spark valve controlled vacuum advance. It's just a matter of finding a store that can get that part for me. Advance, Autozone and Pep Boys are useless. I am going to try Napa on my lunch break and if not them I'll try Son's (local store) when I get home.

My initial timing was set at roughly 30* (never pinged though). I set it to 14* and the engine idles much better and runs better at off-idle speeds. It's now totally gutless though, and although I don't have a tach it's all done by maybe 2500 RPM by my ear. I wish there was mechanical advance on this distributor! Oh well. It'll be better when I get the vacuum advance working, hopefully today.

 

[Anonymous]

you need to take the old vac adv houseing with you. i got a replacement at Auto Zone. I can't remember what we looked up--basically the oldest 6cyl. mustang their book covered. then up poped pics of a half dozen different units. did an eyeball with pic to old unit. had new one next AM. $10 ish

 

[Anonymous]

I went to Napa and they ordered one. Didn't ask about there being several types or anything, so I assume they got it right. I'll find out in about half an hour or so. They said it should be in by 3:30 so I'm gonna head out to get it after I finish eating lunch.