MSD Vac Adv Dist for 351W

[Cobra 29]

I want to replace my Duraspark distributor with a MSD Distributor for easier tuning. Eventually, I will replace the current ignition box (a FMS part made by MSD) with a Digital 6 box. My question is should I select the MSD 8354 which will connect to the existing ignition system and later to the Digital 6 (I believe) OR get the MSD 8478 which requires a MSD box immediately? Are these two vacuum advance distributors the same except for the connection wire?

Additionally, I want to make sure I order the distributor with the right distributor gear materal. My 351 in the FMS M-6007-A351 engine. The specs say it contains a FMS M-6250-A351 high performance hydraulic camshaft (lift .520 intake, .538 exhaust). What distributor gear should I use ???

[Mr.Fixit]

Replace the whole ignition system at once so you only have to play the compatability game once. (Although any magnetic triggered dist. should work fine) They all have two or three wires. The third wire is a ground wire, not all have it, not all need it. Get the MSD with rev limiter (part # ending in -AL) Gear choice depends on cam material. I don't know what cams ford sells, always use aftermarket. If it's a roller cam (mechanical or hydraulic) it needs a steel distributor gear (bronze will work but has a short lifespan) non-roller cams use a cast iron gear.

[RACER X #99]

29,
I have the same engine as you do , it is a flat tappett hydraulic cam. Use the cast iron gear. My MSD dist. came with that gear.

McCranky

[Jack21]

29

My engine similar to yours. Get the MSD mag pickup distrubutor. It's a nice piece of work. Essentially a Delco distributor on a Ford stalk. Pick up a set of MSD low resistance plug wires while you're at it.

Before you install it, get a Crane or Accel (MSD won't tell you this) adjustable vacuum advance cannister for a '57 - '73 Delco distributor and swap out the MSD non-adjustable vacuum unit. You'll need to adjust your vacuum advance down to 8 - 12 deg, or you'll get a low load miss when cruising.

The plain MSD6A is fine if you're not overly inclined to push the motor to the red line frequently. Otherwise, get the one with the rev limiter.

The dist comes with a cast iron gear for flat tappet (non-roller) cams. With a roller cam, you need to use the correct FMS steel roller cam distributor gear. Bronze wears out too fast for street use.