83 distributor in later model roller block

[Bisquik1959]

I am rebuilding a 92 302 roller block. I need to keep my 83 style distributor for California inspection purposes. I know that the roller block required a steel gear. What are my options here?

[Rusty_S85]

I have a F1SE block made in 1993 with a Crane hyd roller cam using the OE roller parts.  The cam is a machined steel cam and I plan on running this Cardone distributor offered new for the 1985 mustang GT with a 302.  This was the 4V mustang that still used the DSII ignition system and has the steel gear on the distributor that will work with a non billet roller cam.

Part # 842831

Out of stock at summit till Jan 2021
https://www.summitracing.com/parts/aaz-84-2831

I bought mine from Rockauto and its out of stock there as well.


Photo of my engine build as of now with the Cardone distributor temporarily installed to show its a DSII distributor as many online sources cite this is for computer controlled and its not it has the DSII ignition module plug.

[Bisquik1959]

Excellent! Thank you!

[myrl883]

I used a steel gear from Summit - it was less than $10. You just need to measure the diameter of your distributor shaft, Ford used two different sizes.

[Rusty_S85]

myrl883 wrote

I used a steel gear from Summit - it was less than $10. You just need to measure the diameter of your distributor shaft, Ford used two different sizes.

Yep you can buy a steel gear and change it out.  I just went the distributor route as I wanted all new for a new engine build.

[Bisquik1959]

That seems like an even easier choice! Excellent!