Farmall h distrib. area question

rankrank1 · May 25, 2013

Decided I would throw a timing light on my ole 1951 Farmall h and set it. (I have only an IT manual)

Anyway, I have a question for the distributor area. I understand how to loosen the 2 clamps that hold the distrubuter so it can be rotated to either advance or retard the timing as needed.

My question is: What is the purpose of the adjustment slot that is on the distributor mounting casting where it bolts to the block. These 2 bolts were somewhat loose on my tractor. I have tightened them and set the timing. That said, I am wondering If there is there a procedure where this needs adjusted? Or is that slot there to simply allow for some wiggle room regarding meshing the cam gears upon initial engine assembly (If this is covered in my IT manual then I have not found it yet).

Thanks

pete 23 · May 25, 2013

The reason for the slots is with a magneto that is
how you time the impulse. For battery ignition the
bolts are just tightened. Far as timing with a
light, only accurate way is to mark pulley for
full advance and time it at full throttle. Most
H"s use a 40 degree advance distributor but it
could be a 30 or 22 depending on what pistons and
head it has. If you don"t know these variables it
is best to set static timing, without light to tdc
by what ever method you are comfortable with. A
test light on the dist , points closed, move dist
opposite of normal rotation until light comes on
is one easy method. Or pull coil wire and turn
until you get a spark. Most old distributors will
advance considerable amount even at low idle so
timing with a light at idle speed will give you
false readings.

rankrank1 · May 25, 2013

Thank you very much for the reply. All your info was very helpful. The IT manual did at least list a table showing the advances at various rpm's.

I am pretty sure I am much closer to correct now. My stumble that I used to have when throttling from low throttle to wide open is now gone.

Farmall h distrib. area question

rankrank1

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pete 23

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rankrank1

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