[Ronnieroadster]

Originally Posted by miwi

Hi,

I‘m currently working on a 4.2l (255 cui) french flathead. I have to install a new 12 V distributor instead of the water protected 24v distributor. I have a few questions, maybe some can answer them.
1. I want to install a new distributor. I using on my 3.9l French one of Bubbas electronic distributors. I never had problems with it. I‘m think of one of Bubba‘s electronic distributors also on the 4.2 l. I know that Bubba is out of business, but didn‘t another company is now selling Ex Bubba distributors? Or what other alternative would you recommend.
2. When I’m searching for front engine covers in the web i only find those for a 239 flatty without the bolt hole. The french one has a bolt coming through the cover like on the 255 flatty. Do you know if there are 255 front cover for sale or can I use the 239 front cover.


Thanks for your help

Having had experience with the French block having used one in my race car up to 180 MPH. What you can simply do is use any of the Ford front covers from the 1949 to 1953 V-8 engines. With the Ford front cover you can now use any type of distributer made for the application or any conversions also being offered. The only modification you may need to do is a way to provide a clamp to hold the distributer in place so its adjustable for proper timing settings. What i do is simply weld a block to the top outer surface of the front cover which has a threaded hole for a stud or bolt. i then make a clamp to hold the distributer in place.
Ronnieroadster