Which Distributor for what cam?

Ralph Moore

Ralph Moore

Well-known member
I am wondering about camshaft/distributor combinations on 38-48 motors.
I have a 59A-B that came with a helmet type distributor with a three bolt gear cover and a camshaft that had a very small rise where the timing gear bolts on(camshaft stood on end).
I just ordered a new cam, but it has about a 3/4" rise(stand it on end) where the gear bolts on.
Do I need to switch to a later Dist/ 2 bolt cover combo?
Or if I wanted to use this could I machine the rise down to match the old cam?
I'm sorry I don't have pictures, but I can add those as soon as I get time.

Thanks,

Ralph
 
The cam with the higher nose is meant to be used with the helmet style distributor. The one with the low nose is for the 59AB which used a distributor with a longer snout. In order for your original combination to work, you would need a cam "button" which effectively increases the length of the cam. These are available from most flathead suppliers. So the new cam you have now will work with the helmet distributor.
 
Great, I don't remember the "button" when I took it apart, but that was about five years ago, and I can't even remember what I had for supper last night.
Thanks for the help.
Ralph
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top