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I'm brand new to forums of any type, but this one has been full of help so far (google searches). I'm based in the UK and recently bought my dream truck, a 1955 F100, fully messed with and hardly original at all. It drives great, however it'd be really nice to be able to get the right seals, spark plug cables, distributor etc, etc. And despite my best efforts I cannot confirm whether my engine is a 302 (or not) Definitely need the right plug ASAP Could really do with a cover for this
Remember, a 302 isn't a 302 - there are may variants of the 302 along the way so it would be very beneficial to narrow it down to what exactly it is you have.
Hi Davey, welcome to the forum! I will confirm for you that you do indeed have the 302. I'll also tell you that you're missing what's called the "block plate", the plate that goes between the engine and transmission. It sets the correct space between the engine and transmission, preventing excess pressure on the trans pump, and indexes the starter to keep it from moving around on the bolts, which could cause them to break and jam the starter into the flywheel. It looks like you have the AOD transmission, to be sure to get the correct one for your application. I recommend getting one installed immediately. This one should work. https://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-700602/make/ford
Thank you for taking the time to help out, I’ve got a few bits that need to be replaced, distributor, spark plug leads, gearbox sump gasket, etc etc. So any advice on parts is much appreciated.
Welcome to our sickness . Nice looking truck . I do agree with 52 Merc on your missing plate with the exception that it's fairly obvious that the combination has been in there and used for quite some time so must be working as is . He is correct on the pressure on the pump which will destroy it in a mater of minutes ( personal experience with wrong flexplate ) . With the exception of a 351 distributor ( longer ) most other parts are interchangable , as for spark plugs pull one you have and replicate as there will be differences in years and heads .
Thank you for taking the time to help out, I’ve got a few bits that need to be replaced, distributor, spark plug leads, gearbox sump gasket, etc etc. So any advice on parts is much appreciated.
What is wrong that leads you to you believe you need to replace the distributor? If it runs and drive good as you say, I don't see what the problem might be. That looks like an old Mallory unit that should give good service.
To narrow down the manufacture date, on the drivers side of the block, where the head meets the block, should be a small machined surface with four alpha numeric characters. Those characters will give you the date of the block (and heads if not changed).
Looks like someone did a job on the oil drain plug . When replacing the oil pan gasket, might consider replacing the oil pan.
Last edited by Dturk; Nov 24, 2025 at 07:20 AM.
Reason: Add info
. When replacing the oil pan gasket, might consider replacing the oil pan.
