Points (ignition) file

Marcus

Marcus

Well-known member
Going though my toolbox today, I noticed a tool that might be of use to the 'Barn family: NAPA makes a Points (Ignition) File, part number 2153. I use mine regularly on the various cars, trucks and hot rods - hope this is helpful.
 
Hey, I got one too !

"How should breaker points be dressed down ? Breaker points should be dressed with an oil stone,; never with a file"

'Know your Model A Ford' by Murray Fahnestock 1930
 
jb-ob said:
Hey, I got one too !

"How should breaker points be dressed down ? Breaker points should be dressed with an oil stone,; never with a file"

'Know your Model A Ford' by Murray Fahnestock 1930
Click to expand...

Forget the oil. I use water. The stone lasts just as well and does a better job.
 
When I had to use a point file, the points were pretty much history anyway. It will get you going again but soon let you down since the ignition points were protected by a very thin coating of platinum. once you file that off, you're down to the unprotected base metal. If you need to clean the points, a VERY fine stone, or a very fine "flex-stone " burnisher strip. The point faces need mate up perfectly when closed for great results.
 
The last one of those files I purchased was not a good purchase, wore out with minimal use, back to using a hand me down from grandpa.

However, an emery board nail file works very well, and if you don't have a female companion complete with her hand bag full of accessories along, you can purchase a 10 pack for a buck at most dollar stores.

Sent from my E6810 using Tapatalk
 
mass A man said:
protected by a very thin coating of platinum. once you file that off, you're down to the unprotected base metal.
Click to expand...

The point blocks are made of Tungsten if I recall properly.

The point blocks can be made of different alloys as I have some very low cost NOS aftermarket point sets on a card. The point blocks have turned grey with and oxide coating. While the jar full of used Ford script and Standard brand points I have are still clean and shiny even though they are used.

Which I will point out that points only need to be replaced when the wear block is gone or the contacts are really bad. They do not go bad with time so most people should be able to get 50-60 years out of their used point set that came with the car.
 
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