ignition question on sidevalve(flathead)

hello i have a 21 stud side valve i am using in my a rpu and was just wondering if i can convert the ignition(distributor) to the modern style dizzy s that allot of guys are running( like the Chev style off the front, i have attached a pic of my ignition set up,
cheers Andrew

 

you sure can, but its a bit involved, you need to find an 8BA (49-53) timing cover and Cam, the cam has a gear to suit the side mount dizzy. I think you also need 8BA water pumps and lower pulley to space the belt in front of the new distributor position.you may have to trim the crossmember to clear the lower pulley,hard to tell from the photo.

 

I have never used one myself but it seems most flathead guys prefer to go to the 59a style ignition if they want to upgrade. basically a spacer is all that's needed to convert from the dizzy you have to the "crab style" dizzy. lots of info around here on how to set them up, which you do right out of the car then just bolt it on.

 

no worrys and thank you lowsquire buy the sounds of it i may look into as revkev6 is saying, can any one give me any MORE INFO on this setup?
cheers guys

 

More...your cam with the model 78 distributor is either a long cam...nose about 3/8" longer than the '42-48...OR a short cam (most common repair part) with a short Ford nose extender...this is just a short lump with a lot and tongue to extend distributor drive, and can just be puleed out if it exists...
The change...you need some '42-48 distributor and either a '42-8 front cover or an adaptor for current front cover...second way handles all issues, first way will need a plate to move the distributor out the required amount IF you have long cam.
HAMBer Dick Spadaro makes the adaptors and extenders.