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I have a 239 Y in my 55 ford truck and spent a little time cleaning up the distributor today. It was pretty grimy. The engine is in the process of being rebuilt. I'm looking for any advice on rebuilding the distributor. I have read that these 239 Y distributors are a rare birds! I plan to do a little research to help me decide what to do. The engine was running before I pulled it, but since I have it out I might as well do it right. Thanks for any advice you may have. Dave
I had a "Load-O-Matic" when I had the 239 for my 55 F-600 and it was the first thing I tossed! (actually I think I sold to a "239-guy")
You might be able to get an auto-electric shop to rebuild it (replace bushings etc) but you also might consider replacing it with a newer (272/292) dist.
I have a 292 dist I was going to use but now I am probably going to just get an MSD-8383 drop-in. I have a 292 in my 55 F-600 with a new Holley 390cfm carb. I wanted a fully adjustable dist.
If you need it to be original, then the only option is a rebuild of that distributor.
If you do not need it to be original, then do not even bother with that distributor. Either get a rebuilt unit for a '57 or newer model or go brand new, aftermarket.
I'm pretty sure the newer one will drop right into a '55 engine. That distributor is a hex drive. Make sure that the teeth count 14. If so, then the newer distributor should work with no problem. You will not hook up the vacuum advance of the newer distributor in the same way.
If you will retain the stock intake and carburetor, then you must use manifold vacuum or simply leave the vacuum advance disconnected.
If you will be converting to a modern carburetor, then you should have the options of ported or manifold vacuum. Research the pros and cons of each and make your choice.
The vacuum advance on the newer distributor is only an economy feature and is not an absolute requirement.
On the original distributor, however, it is the only method of controlling the timing and is a requirement but it uses a particular vacuum signal which will be provided only by the correct carburetor. That vacuum signal will not work for the newer vacuum advance.
I see springs in the pic, is that a loadomatic? But yeah, I'd get a post '56 or later distributor. Manifold vacuum would work fine for the vacuum advance.
Rick- I ended up finding some 19.5" rims that take radial tires. They look just like the original WM's, just a lot safer. (Thanks again Stu)
Thanks for all the advice guys. It sounds like I do have options. Now I just have to make a decision. I probably will swing by the local auto shop that has an "old timer mechanic" also! I did get my Y block yesterday so I will share that picture.
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