Model A or B parts?

[fordfun]

My recently acquired 1929 Sport Coupe came with a B head, B water pump and B carburetor. Can you help me determine (from the attached photos) whether it contains a Model A or B distributor and timing cover?

The distributor cam appears to resemble that of the model B (flats blend with radius). The timing cover appears to be a replacement, but the hole for the timing pin is in the lower part of the flat, suggesting that it is the original model A configuration. I understand that mismatch of these parts such as combining a model A timing gear cover with a model B distributor may require that allowance be made in setting the advance during timing.

I’ll greatly appreciate any guidance you can give me regarding model identification of these parts and the corresponding way the engine should be timed.

Thanks - Bill

 

[Charlie Stephens]

Your distributer is a Model A as determined by the fact that it has a manual spark advance. The Model B had an automatic advance. The Model B distributor cam is an improvement over the Model A but the improvement doesn't affect anything else. Your timing cover is a later replacement but the location of the timing pin at the bottom of the oval boss makes it correct for a Model A and correct for your distributor.

Charlie Stephens

 

[fordfun]

Charlie -

Thanks for the helpful explanation. I'm climbing a steep learning curve these days, and enjoying it immensely due in large part to the generous help of knowledgeable people such as you.

Bill

 

[Mike V. Florida]

Charlie -

Thanks for the helpful explanation. I'm climbing a steep learning curve these days, and enjoying it immensely due in large part to the generous help of knowledgeable people such as you.

Bill

Ask away!!!

 

[Chris Haynes]

Most all of the reproduction distrubutor cams use the "B" profile.

 

[mot]

this is what a "B" type distributor looks like
a lot different looking than a Model A
the condenser fits in the hole
tom