Running a Mallory distributor

[mrtexas]

What would be the recommended amount of spark advance be for a Mallory? I'm considering sending mine out to be calibrated.

 

[Tom Wesenberg]

I would say the engine determines the amount of spark advance, not the type of ignition.

 

[mrtexas]

It's my understanding that the springs inside the distributor can be changed to give more/less advance and a different shape to the advance curve.

I would say the engine determines the amount of spark advance, not the type of ignition.

 

[just plain bill]

It's my understanding that the springs inside the distributor can be changed to give more/less advance and a different shape to the advance curve.

There is a kit called the Mallory YL advance curve kit or something like that. The kit consists of a gauge to set timing advance and an assortment of springs with instructions to change the characteristics of the timing curve. The kit is available online from Jegs or Summit Racing

.

 

[Preacher]

yes, the springs, weights, slots, & stops can be changed. But as Tom reflected to is that as the stock Model A distributor is designed to work for the stock engine. A Mallory would (should) be set up properly for a specific engine, carburetor, head, and usage combination for optimum performance. If you do choose to send it out, supplying the vendor with all of the details, they can then properly set it up for your application.

 

[just plain bill]

yes, the springs, weights, slots, & stops can be changed. But as Tom reflected to is that as the stock Model A distributor is designed to work for the stock engine. A Mallory would (should) be set up properly for a specific engine, carburetor, head, and usage combination for optimum performance. If you do choose to send it out, supplying the vendor with all of the details, they can then properly set it up for your application.

Mallory used to supply the timing gauge with the distributor. Actually in my experience most distributor people ask how much advance YOU want and at what RPMS do YOU want it. With the Mallory the distributor decided on how much advance and when instead of the driver constantly adjusting the timing by a lever. This reminds me of a slogan used when Oldsmobile introduced the Hydramatic automatic transmission "It does the thinking for you"

 

[john in illinois]

A stock or slightly modified A engine should have a maximum advance of 27-28 degrees.Best horsepower is around 2200 rpm. So 28 deg. at 2200 should work.

Here are some dyno sheets from Piranios engines.

Link http://modelaparts.net/dynosheets.htm/dynosheets.html

 

[d.j. moordigian]

I have done dists. for almost 40 years, just plain bill is correct...and....john in il., I
think 2200 rpm is short.

 

[mrtexas]

Thanks, just was I was interested in!

There is a kit called the Mallory YL advance curve kit or something like that. The kit consists of a gauge to set timing advance and an assortment of springs with instructions to change the characteristics of the timing curve. The kit is available online from Jegs or Summit Racing

.