Model 18, 40A & 40B Distributors

[Flathead21]

I've come across mention of Model 18, 40A & 40B Distributors.


I'm not familiar with Ford distributors by Model number. I've always just known them as crab, divers helmet, etc.


Can someone enlighten me as to what Model 18, 40A, 40B distributors are; or what years/models.


Thanks.

 

[Lawrie]

18 is 32, 40 is 33 and 40B is 34.
for the dual throat carb( 97)
Lawrie

 

[Flathead21]

Thanks Lawrie.

 

[Flathead21]

Would you also know what a 68 & 78 distributor is also Lawrie?
Thanks.

 

[38 coupe]

Edit: corrected information after being reminded by DavidG

68 is late 1936 with the flat top coil ("snuff can coil")
78 is 1937 through 1940 and uses the same internal parts as the 68 distributor

11A is 1941, and same advance curve is used through the end of the front mount distributors in 48.


All of the above is for V8 only, not 4 or 6 cylinder.

 

[DavidG]

With respect, the 68-prefix coil is late '36 only. The 78-prefix coil is for '37 through '40.

 

[Flathead21]

thanks for the info

 

[38 coupe]

With respect, the 68-prefix coil is late '36 only. The 78-prefix coil is for '37 through '40.

Thank you for the correction, I was thinking of the mechanical advance feature and forgot about the distributor housing difference. Oops!

 

[drgoetz]

The 40A distributor is used for the single throat carburetor. The 40B is used for the duel throat carburetor... Info is in the Service Bulletins.
For the most part any of the distributors will work through '41 (you'll never notice the difference.) The 011A is used for the 60hp engine.