Flathead Ford camshaft question

Didn't Ford have a long nose and short nose camshaft for the V8 flatheads? Does any one know the dimensional difference of the two and what years they were used? This question is in reference to pre-side mount distributors.

 

I can measure tonight, if I remember. The difference is on the order of maybe 3/8", I think?

for quick sorting, short is more or less flush with cam gear, long projects noticeably.

 

I think you are right. I believe the change came in 1938 when Ford went to the bolt on cam gear.

 

I think the change came when Ford went from the divers helmet Dist. to the pancake style . . . . 1942

 

Alchemy, you are right. Thanks!!

 

Yep, 1942 with open style distributor. Ford sold an adaptor to lengthen the short cam for use with early front cover and distributor, so I measured that--it seems to be about .4" long.
All cams 1932-38 are long with no bolts, 1939-41 (91A) cam is long with bolt on gear, 21A cam 1942-48 is short. Nearly all cams available now are 21A type. When looking in to an engine with bolt on cam gear, the short cam is about level with surrounding gear, long cam protrudes noticeably. Adaptor is still available.

 

Bruce, thanks for the info! That's excatly what I needed!!