rebuild front distributor

[Anonymous-0]

Hi guys. I need to rebuild my distributor. Its a front mount 8n. The problem is the brass bushing is worn, and the shaft can move around a little. I noticed this when trying to adjust the point gap, and just not being able to get the gap wide enough. I got around it by filing down the points, but thats just a temporary fix. I am asking for opinions. Should I try to rebuild the distributor, which is ok except for being worn, OR should I try the electronic ignition modules? If those are trustworthy, I would consider that. What kind of luck are people having with those conversions? Thanks

 

[LP GAS ONLY]

If you put in electronic set up, you still need that bushing changed. Simple for most people to fix. Go for it.
If you are still on 6v., will not be able to run electrinic ign. That is 12v only.
G.

 

[Dan]

I rebuild the front mount distributor on my '48 8N. It is a piece of cake if you have a bushing driver set. They were a little snug so I hit mine with a Dremel tool and a abrasive buff wheel - worked like a champ.

Dan

 

[SteveR(OH)]

Any suggestions on where to get the rebuild kit?

 

[souNdguy]

they make 6v ei.. but I think they are unreliable if the system voltage is down a hair.. IE.. worn starter.. tired battery.. etc. too close to the edge for me.. etc.

soundguy

 

[Dan]

I get my stuff from external_link, but try her first uder the "Parts" link above.

Dan

 

[Devious]

Soundguy Do youfeel that way about 12 volt EIs if I have to redo my distri when the time comes to fire up the beasts. I think both tractors have been rode hard and not taken care of and may need sparking rebuilds along with the 1 wire alternators I have I have front mount square type stuff now. Don t know if the coils are 6 or 12 volt Have not jumped into that stuff yet. Messing with hard steering etc and getting the Alts working. One more question. Can I run a engine with portable tank hookup with just the batt and starter hooked up or do I need the alt on line also. I was thinking of using a large car batt to hook up to the starter solenoid to troubleshoot the engine running condition and oil press etc before I get too far down the road and find out I need to tear it down etc. It is very free turning without plugs in using a bar in the crank spot on the front end. Whatcha think about all this ? Devious

 

[Ronnie G]

You can also purchase a new breeaker plate. It comes with a new set of points. Price is around 40.00

 

[souNdguy]

If I went ei.. I'd for sure do it on 12v.

6v and ei is just to close for comfort. a cold morning on an older battery with a weak starter and you got a 2400# paperweight that likele would start with points..

I don't doubt you can turn an N engine over with the plugs out.. that's pretty common.

i wouldn't run with no working fan / fan belt.

soundguy

 

[Devious]

I gotcha on the needing a fan belt working as usual Figured on having the alt on and belt tightened to make the stuff fire etc off the batt long enough to make some decisions. Check oil psi and knocking? if any etc. Thanks Devious

 

[R.D.F.]

Lately, on these tractors with severely worn distributors, we've been installing brand new distributors, very cost effective and "nothing" is worn out, Dale. 920 295 3278, [email protected].

 

[souNdguy]

don't run the alt unloaded.. at least wire it's charge stud to the battery, and #2 to the charge stud.

soundguy

 

[Jim Kountz]

If I replace the bushing should oil holes be drill through them? The case has two holes but the old bushing was not drilled. Thanks, Jim

 

[TennesseeMan]

I rebuilt my distributor on my 49 8N. I did it different tho. I removed the old one, tossed it into the trash, and put on a brand new one that cost $306.54. Runs and sounds great. I sure didn't want to spend the money but it was well worth it.