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Old 05-15-2010, 09:34 PM   #1
LeroyM
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Default Non Model A & B Distributors

Hey guys,

Who's running a non Model A & B distributor in their hopped up motors? What fairly modern distributor makes a good swap for theses old motors? I've heard before that a 70's Datsun distributor will work with some machining done to it but I have no idea which model the distributor came from.

I have used a old 50's Mallory before with good results but parts for them are hard to come by. Are the new Mallory's as good as the old ones?

Any thoughts or help would be appreciated. Thanks.
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Old 05-15-2010, 09:40 PM   #2
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

I just stuck a NOS Delco Remy on eBay (shameless plug) that may fit with some machine work. No idea what it was originally designed for.
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Old 05-16-2010, 01:34 AM   #3
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

I use Roto-Faze distributors with Jacobs computer ignitions.
Both have websites.
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Old 11-08-2014, 03:54 PM   #4
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

Quote:
Originally Posted by Pete View Post
I use Roto-Faze distributors with Jacobs computer ignitions.
Both have websites.
Hey Pete,
'computer ignitions' ! Hm, as I'm computer challenged , how is this system setup, i.e.- is it simple swap in , you have to have computer to calibrate computer, what's involved Since you've already used this equipment, thot maybe you could give condensed short version on installation/use ?
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Old 11-09-2014, 03:52 PM   #5
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

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Hey Pete,
'computer ignitions' ! Hm, as I'm computer challenged , how is this system setup, i.e.- is it simple swap in , you have to have computer to calibrate computer, what's involved Since you've already used this equipment, thot maybe you could give condensed short version on installation/use ?
Both the distributor and ignition are bolt in items. Nothing to adjust except initial timing as you would for a stock engine.
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Old 11-10-2014, 02:32 AM   #6
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

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Thanks Pete !
Have another good option to look into now !
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Old 05-16-2010, 08:18 AM   #7
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

I run a delco HEI out of a oldsmobile v-8 that I modified on my lathe , took an afternoon , looked at distributor caps till I found 4cyl that fit ,this distributor is self contained , coil and all. 1 wire hook-up. I did this because I didn't have a model A distributor , and wanted to get it running , has centrifical advance and vaccume advance hooked up , so far it has ran great..........
JIMI
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Old 05-16-2010, 10:16 AM   #8
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

YOJIMI,

Do you know what year the oldsmobile was that the distributor came out of and what 4cyl cap you ended up using?
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Old 05-16-2010, 03:22 PM   #9
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

I'm running a modern Mallory in a standard A motor with a 5.5:1 head. I'm happy with it.
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Old 05-16-2010, 06:18 PM   #10
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

I'm planning to use a Ford Escort distributor. Note the key word "planning". I have not even acquired one yet but it's a four cylinder with a fairly large diameter cap and it is designed to turn counter clockwise (as do most/all Fords).
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Old 05-16-2010, 07:19 PM   #11
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

I'm running a modern dual point Mallory w/centrifigal advance. Points, condenser, cap, rotor still readily available at summit racing. I also run a 5.9 Brumfield Head w/ no other mods. Works great - trouble free.
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Old 05-16-2010, 11:08 PM   #12
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Smile Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

i have run an early datsun 70 s in my ovh am now running a single point mallory mallory. both performed great. the datsun requires some lathe and mill work and you only use the primary set of points. dual points in a 4banger driver is not necessary in my opinion. fs ignitions make a nice reliable ignition check it out. scotty
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Old 05-18-2010, 10:25 AM   #13
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

After reading a article in Secrets Magazine, the official journal of the Secrets Of Speed Society (S.O.S.S.) and author Gary Anderson ( thanks Gary), of Michigan. volume 19 issue 2 we have machined up a dozen or so of these new Mallorys for the Model Ts and Model As ( Different lower ends and different curves for sure ).

(by the way if you dont get this magazine you really need to !!! Order at [email protected] )

The Model A uses the Mallory with a slight amount of machining work by ctting some off the bottom, machining a drive tang and making a new bushing. The springs are changed to get the curve moving a little quicker than usual ..
Some pics:








Polished or "vintage" blasted????



Unit is held in with bolt or may use machined clamp by threading the pin hole.
Curve is very adjustable but most have used a 20 degree advance at 3000 rpm for the A's and 20 degrees at 2000 for the Model Ts'...
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Last edited by BUBBAS IGNITION; 05-19-2010 at 02:00 PM.
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Old 05-18-2010, 10:42 AM   #14
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

We have been pleased with the Zipper from FS Ignitions. It is an electronic replacement. We did an article on it in Vol 3 Issue 1 of the Model A Times.
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Old 05-18-2010, 10:44 AM   #15
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

I am using an FSI (First Street Ignitions) distributor (not the Zipper). My engine is stock other than the distributor and single downdraft setup w/ a Yapp Scalded Dog intake and Stromberg 97 (reman. - English) carburetor. I love the changes.
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Old 05-18-2010, 07:10 PM   #16
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

Bubbas...if you don't mind, what was the Mallory originally for? Best guess, chevy 2 marine? Thanks, Dudley
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Old 05-18-2010, 09:10 PM   #17
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

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Bubbas...if you don't mind, what was the Mallory originally for? Best guess, chevy 2 marine? Thanks, Dudley

I think the article said it was for a 170 Ford Industrial engine......nice unit , single point no fuss -no muss.....
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Old 05-18-2010, 09:23 PM   #18
Pete
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

Good looking unit Bubba.
I have to chuckle and giggle at the UL label though.
Yes, I know it is a piece of electrical equipment but that just tickles
my funny bone.
I have dealt with UL many times over the years when I was in the electrical equipment manufacturing business so I know what it takes to get a UL label on a piece of equipment....
I wonder if the CSA label is hiding behind the spring clamp.
Again, good job.
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Old 11-06-2014, 10:35 PM   #19
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

I know this is an old post BUT?
Maybe I am missing something here; but how is the Modified Mallory going to get oil to the shaft! Should an Oiler be added also? Like on an Stock A model or even the Mallory from earlier? Any one using one of these? Any more photos?
I remember reading about the modification somewhere but have not been able to find it lately! I really like the looks of this one...
Just wondering?
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Old 11-07-2014, 03:00 PM   #20
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Default Re: Non Model A & B Distributors

Quote:
Originally Posted by triumphleroy View Post
I know this is an old post BUT?
Maybe I am missing something here; but how is the Modified Mallory going to get oil to the shaft! Should an Oiler be added also? Like on an Stock A model or even the Mallory from earlier? Any one using one of these? Any more photos?
I remember reading about the modification somewhere but have not been able to find it lately! I really like the looks of this one...
Just wondering?
Hey Leroy,
Photos: Here are two of Bubbas' latest creations of mod Mallory, limited edition...sans the UL tag,etc.
Very clean simple look and rec'd WITH dist shaft and and wire set. Centrifugal advance and setup by Jim ...with his majic touch ! Hasn't run yet, as it is for B that I'm SLOWLY putting together. However, others who have run this unit, say that it's the best..we'll see, eh !!
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