[INchief]

I am looking for a source for distributor parts - 1955 287, Delco Remy model 1110828 5F 28. I'm finding places that sell various parts, is there one vendor that sells a rebuild kit or has all of the parts needed? Also, looking for a drive gear but I'm getting conflicting information on what gear is compatible. The drive gear has definitely seen better days, which is what started this quest. Is there a drop-in replacement distributor that is a later model? Thanks

[Bill Hanlon]

Physically, any 55 to end of real Pontiac V8 (1981 if I remember right) distributor will drop in. 55-56 have points that you need to remove the distributor cap to adjust. 57-73 (and some 74) use a cap with a "window" that allows external points adjustments. Some 74 and all 75 to 1981 had HEI. At some point after '77 HEI was computer controlled.

Many different gear materials were used over the years as well as many different mechanical and vacuum timing advance curves. The HEI was larger diameter and may interfere with throttle linkage.

I ran a '77 HEI in my '57 GMC (it came from the factory with a Pontiac engine) for 20+ years.

[INchief]

Originally Posted by Bill Hanlon

Physically, any 55 to end of real Pontiac V8 (1981 if I remember right) distributor will drop in. 55-56 have points that you need to remove the distributor cap to adjust. 57-73 (and some 74) use a cap with a "window" that allows external points adjustments. Some 74 and all 75 to 1981 had HEI. At some point after '77 HEI was computer controlled.

Many different gear materials were used over the years as well as many different mechanical and vacuum timing advance curves. The HEI was larger diameter and may interfere with throttle linkage.

I ran a '77 HEI in my '57 GMC (it came from the factory with a Pontiac engine) for 20+ years.

OK, that helps a lot. I changed to electronic points and matching coil a few years ago. I found a NOS vacuum advance canister, so I believe I have the correct advance curve. I'm thinking that the firewall will interfere with an HEI distributor, it's pretty tight back there but I'll look into that. Would there be a problem with advance curve on my older engine if I find an HEI will fit? I'm curious now what is a "real Pontiac" engine? Is there a gear material that should be avoided due to wear or other issues? Thanks for your help

[694.1]

I cant speak to advance curves but I do know that 57 & 58 are the same dist.
It does not sound like points are an issue for you but if you are running Pertronics, be damn sure you carry your old points in the glove box. It may save you a tow.
57 -74 used the externally adjustable points & dizzy were cast iron up to about 64-ish? (help here) After that they are aluminum and will save almost a pound!
No need for HEI, what are we working on?

[Safari Larry]

Originally Posted by INchief

I'm curious now what is a "real Pontiac" engine?

To answer your question, see https://www.pontiacsafari.com/L1Earl...nes/index.html and scroll to the end.

[INchief]

Originally Posted by 694.1

I cant speak to advance curves but I do know that 57 & 58 are the same dist.
It does not sound like points are an issue for you but if you are running Pertronics, be damn sure you carry your old points in the glove box. It may save you a tow.
57 -74 used the externally adjustable points & dizzy were cast iron up to about 64-ish? (help here) After that they are aluminum and will save almost a pound!
No need for HEI, what are we working on?

1955 287. Right, points aren't really the issue. The drive gear is definitely worn down - 165K miles. I should have addressed it during engine overhaul but I had so much going on it got past me. This was my first experience with an early Pontiac motor and there was a learning curve. I think the distributor in general just needs some attention. I've found parts at various sources but really just wondering if there is a "kit" that has all the usual parts that would be replaced. If not, I can buy a drive gear and replace whatever else I find.

I think you are right that there isn't a need for HEI. I've been trying my best to keep whatever came in the car as original - not because I'm a purist per se, but I really don't like getting bogged down in modifications just get something to fit and work. I drive this car a lot so it's important to keep projects simple and working correctly. This is my first vintage Pontiac so it's different from my past experience with vintage Dodge and Chevy cars and it's been a lot of fun. I'm planning to pull the distributor once the weather turns too bad for road trips. Just trying to get my ducks in a row and have what I need on hand once I get it out of the car. I was leaning towards a drop in replacement that is new, but I'd like to repair the one that came with the car if possible.

[Goatracer1]

I have been using a 1963 389 distributor in my 287 for over 35 years. It still uses the points but with a MSD control box. The points last forever that way. If your distributor gear is badly worn you better check the camshaft gear too.

[INchief]

Originally Posted by Goatracer1

I have been using a 1963 389 distributor in my 287 for over 35 years. It still uses the points but with a MSD control box. The points last forever that way. If your distributor gear is badly worn you better check the camshaft gear too.

OK, great to know. I'll look into the MSD control box - do you have a model number on that by chance? The camshaft was replaced at overhaul about 7k miles ago. I should have dealt with the distributor then but it got down to getting it done and I chose to wait. I'm not having any issues but I'd like to address the distributor now while the driving season is winding down. Thanks for your input, it helps to know some of you guys have already been down this road. One question - is the vacuum advance curve a consideration with a later model distributor being installed in my 287 or not really a concern?

[Goatracer1]

It is a MSD 6A that is super old now. They now probably offer 2-3 different boxes you can use. Look on Summit or Jegs webb sites and check them out.

[INchief]

Thanks, I'll look them up

[Jack Gifford]

Originally Posted by INchief

... is the vacuum advance curve a consideration with a later model distributor being installed in my 287 or not really a concern?...

I don't know exact difference in the curves, but it's not much of a concern. Those ancient chambers and low compression ratio are quite tolerant of varying amounts of timing advance.

Edit: Oops! I was thinking you asked about the centrifugal curve.
Nobody worries about the "curve" of the vacuum advance (the advance at vacuum values between zero and maximum). Simply the amount of advance is of importance. Some vacuum diaphragms have a limit-adjusting screw- I don't remember whether any Pontiac did.