Model T/Fordson mystery ignition part

[awelker]

Found this part on a Fordson tractor, it screws on to the camshaft to the threads for the timer nut. It appears to be a four lobe cam that would operate points and the end looks like a more modern rotor would fit.

This is all there was, anybody have any ideas on an aftermarket ignition conversion that would have used this?

Andy

 

[Susanne]

There were a number of different timers used on both the T and the Fordson - the one that this one matches has a set of contact points in the cap to "make and break" the contact as the rotor made contact with each contact patch. Kind of complicated setup, but If you have the cap DON'T get rid of it - while the principle of it is kinda flawed for running on Mag, they work amazingly well (ask me how I know) and will last a long time if kept lubed. It has the added plus that you can actually adjust the duration of the coil (on battery) by shrinking or expanding the points gap... meaning you can run that spark for a while insuring a better burn of your fuel. On mag, well... I've yet to have my car fail to fire up on Mag even after sitting for months (something either my ford original or my old New Day would never do)!!!

If I ever pull it off I'll post pictures, but it works so well I kinda don't want to, for fear of jynxing it!!)

 

[awelker]

Any idea of the name brand of the timer that uses this? Something to look for someday.