Hot Rods 4.2l French Flathead

Hi,

I‘m currently working on a 4.2l (255 cui) french flathead. I have to install a new 12 V distributor instead of the water protected 24v distributor. I have a few questions, maybe some can answer them.
1. I want to install a new distributor. I using on my 3.9l French one of Bubbas electronic distributors. I never had problems with it. I‘m think of one of Bubba‘s electronic distributors also on the 4.2 l. I know that Bubba is out of business, but didn‘t another company is now selling Ex Bubba distributors? Or what other alternative would you recommend.
2. When I’m searching for front engine covers in the web i only find those for a 239 flatty without the bolt hole. The french one has a bolt coming through the cover like on the 255 flatty. Do you know if there are 255 front cover for sale or can I use the 239 front cover.


Thanks for your help

 

I am not sure,but I would bet that any 49-53 Ford,merc cover should bolt right on to the existing cam cover. For the ease of simple,u can now use the stock(49-53)distributor—not very proficient(no advance weights to advance timing/won’t work with 2 carbs.) but is available and will run and perform.

 

See post #6 in this thread : https://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/49-53-ford-8ba-flathead-v-8.1081323/#post-12256506