Distributor question

[69-3400]

I couldn't get the Ford started today. Chased it down to no spark to the plugs. Had spark to the distributor cap but decided to check the points (they are bad). The plate that the points and condenser are mounted to is loose so that it wobbles. It appears to be held in place with a single "c" clip and I don't see any way to tighten it. I expect a little slop because of the vacuum advance but this seems beyond excessive to me. Enough that I worry I can't properly set the gap on the new points. Is there something I am missing? What is my best course of action?

 

[Steve@Advance]

If this is what I'm thinking it is, Ford passenger or light truck V8, that was a real common problem back in the day.

There was a plastic pivot built into the breaker plate that would get sloppy, let the plate move around and not hold the points setting.

Been many years, but best I remember it was a simple fix, just change out the breaker plate. It was so common about every auto supply had them aftermarket, quick easy fix.

Probably be a little difficult to find one now, may have to go with a rebuilt distributor. Or upgrade it to factory electronic with a little research.

 

[69-3400]

Actually, it is a little industrial tractor but the problem may very well be the same. I will look into it, thank you.

I was looking into the Pertronix conversion but it was recommended I get the tractor running again before doing the conversion. I don’t understand why really but I will follow the advice of those more experienced than I.

 

[Steve@Advance]

If you do go with electronic, you'll still want to replace the breaker plate.

They are not as critical as points for the plate and shaft to be stable, but they do need to be held somewhat in position.

 

[Gene Davis (Ga.)]

John Deere used a Wico XB series distributor for some of the later A and B series tractors with a brass pivot post
for the breaker points. It wore out about the third set of points and was unable to set the point gap on them.