MSD 8353 Ford Front Mount Flathead Pro-Billet Distributor Installation - Manual

AUTOTRONIC CONTROLS CORPORATION • 1490 HENRY BRENNAN DR., EL PASO, TEXAS 79936 • (915) 857-5200 • FAX (915) 857-3344
MSD Pro-Billet Front Mount
Ford Flathead Distributor
2-Bolt, 1942-1948, PN 8351
3-Bolt, 1932-1941, PN 8353
Important: Read these Instructions before attempting the installation.
Parts Included:
1 - Pro-Billet Distributor
1 - Rotor
1 - Distributor Cap, PN 8541
2 - 10-32 x 3/4" Socket Head Screws
1 - Advance Kit
Note: The terminals of this Distributor require spark plug style terminals. You may need to change
the terminals and boots of your wires. MSD offers two kits, PN 8849 or PN 8848 that are
supplied with nine boots and terminals.
Note: The 2 and 3-bolt front covers of the Flathead are interchangeable but if a stock type
camshaft is used with a different cover, an adapter/spacer may be required. These are
available at most Flathead engine shops.
Note: Contact MSD for ordering information when the rotor needs to be replaced.
TIMING FUNCTIONS
Before continuing with the installation, here are a few definitions you should be aware of:
Initial Timing: This is the base timing (also referred to as idle timing) of the engine before the
centrifugal advance begins.
Centrifugal Advance: The centrifugal (or mechanical) advance mechanism is made up of weights,
springs, advance cams, and an advance stop bushing. The amount and rate of advance that
your distributor is capable of is determined by the centrifugal timing. If you ever wish to lock out
the centrifugal advance, refer to the centrifugal advance section.
Total Timing: This is the total of the initial timing plus the centrifugal advance added together.
Example: 10° Initial + 25° centrifugal = 35° Total Timing.
Note: MSD Distributors are supplied with the heavy (slow) advance springs installed. This is to
prevent detonation in certain applications. Review the information on pages 2-4 to
determine the best advance curve for your application.
WARNING: Before installing the MSD Distributor, disconnect the battery cables. When
disconnecting the battery cables, always remove the Negative (-) cable
first and install it last.