I have a 31A, wired for 12v, with a 1950 Ford Flathead. It's using an original style dizzy converted to 12v and a generator. I want to replace the points, cap and condenser but I am confused as to what to buy. I look on NAPA and places like Macs and none specify if the parts are for 12v or 6v. Is there a difference???? Do the same points, etc work on both electrical systems? FYI, not that it matters for this inquiry, but every one loves pics, so here is a pic of my flathead.
Points don't know about voltage. Just make sure you have the proper coil/ballast resistor. Nice lookin' engine; I've got a couple in process myself.
V8 Bob, The loadamatic dizzy has been on there for seven years with the Holley. The va***e advance is disconnected. It seems to run o.k. Gets up to 70mph for interstate driving and gas mileage is ok. This is my first Ford motor so I am still learning about them.
Well, it'll run a whole bunch better (and cooler) with some advance, cause you've got none now! (except for any initial) There is NO mechanical advance on a loadomatic. (a timing light would have shown this) Time to get a shop manual and learn about the engine you're working with, along with some tune up tools.
I wouldn't spend another nickel on that stock distributor. You need to get one of Linder's Converted distributors it will run much much better. I can't think of a better bang for the buck improvement for an 8ba than that.
X3^^^^. I've been running a sbc point conversion (from charlie ny) for many years on my '51, and considering cost, performance and parts replacement, it's unbeatable, imo.
I'd get an old Mallory 2 piece cap distributor and drop in a Pertonix electronic unit. Chevy dists. can be converted to work. No more points... the only thing that I personally don't like is that it starts too quickly and you don't get to hear the cl***ic flatty gowl.
This is a great suggestion! The only problem is that the last time I looked on eBay, the only Mallory 2-piece cap flathead distributor listed had a "Buy it Now" price of $1595. It was NOS however. Seriously, I found one about 7 years ago for $200, but I haven't seen any lately, and I'm always looking. BTW they are asking $275 for used caps on eBay. Maybe swap meets where you are better than in Minnesota. Tommy, why do you suggest a Pertronix? I hear they are suspect, and I've had a set of points last for years. I sent the above-mentioned flattop to Bubba, and he just rebuilt it, made sure everything was fine, and said "Run it".
I had an old Mallory Magspark dist in one of my 8BA 's that Jim Linder had converted that used all GM HEI parts. The module was mounted inside the cab on a nice heat sink it worked great, and had all parts easily replaceable except the cap and rotor which are getting a little hard to come by these days.
Only because they sell a drop in unit that's easy to do. I had a buddy of mine convert mine to Chrysler electronic ignition. I've never owned a Pertronix. My 390 has a converted Mallory it it. I love the looks. There are always gougers that want to take advantage of the lazy guys with megabucks. I just laugh at them and walk on by. I'd question your sanity if you payed those exorbitant prices. I don't remember ever paying over 25 bucks for a Mallory and it was a tach drive for a Corvette. I realize that they are hot right now but if you are not in a hurry they are out there but you have to look for them. Only the high priced models will fall in your lap. The caps can easily be restored to like new condition.
My engine is an 8BA like yours. I used a Mallory electronic distributor with mechanical advance and it works fine. Call Jim Linder and ask for his advice based on what you have done to your engine already. He knows best.
The Jalopy Journal
