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Engines must deliver high-voltage electrical energy to each cylinder's spark plug, and many older and classic cars use a distributor. This electrical energy must reach the spark plug at the right time and sequence to ignite the air and fuel mixture in the cylinders. If there are any issues with the distributor, your engine won't start, you may get a Check Engine light (If equipped), and there might also be misfires.
The good news is that understanding how a distributor works and what you should look for in a Ford 302 engine distributor isn’t all that hard. It can help you replace a faulty distributor or even help you upgrade your current one to squeeze every ounce of horsepower out of your engine. Read on to learn more about Ford 302 engine distributors – we even include some of the best options in our buyer's guide.
Will A Ford 302 Engine Distributor Improve Horsepower?
Yes and no. If you're looking for a factory replacement, you won't notice any significant horsepower changes if you replace the old distributor with one with similar specs to factory parts. On the other hand, some Ford distributors can improve your engine's performance if you advance the timing. Full disclosure: You can advance the timing on factory distributors, too.
It's also important to note that a faulty distributor can reduce your engine's ability to accelerate properly, so replacing it will improve performance back to baseline. Ultimately, the specific type of distributor influences how much horsepower you can gain. You'll also have to tune the engine to maximize the benefits, so keep this in mind.
How To Adjust Your Ford 302 Distributor To Advance Timing
When adjusting your distributor to advance timing on a Ford 302 engine, you must be careful. Adjusting the timing too much can lead to premature detonation, a pinging sound, and misfires that can damage your engine. If you're prepared to adjust your distributor, you can start by setting the engine to top dead center (TDC). This will help you set the timing; you can use this as a foundation to advance your timing later.
Use a TDC indicator tool in the #1 spark plug hole for the best results. Then, rotate the crankshaft by hand until you notice the piston pressing against the stop, then confirm at or mark your balancer. You also need to confirm that the distributor rotor is under the #1 distributor spark plug wire terminal as distributors make two revolutions for every one crankshaft revolution. If you find TDC at the spark plug, the distributor rotor will either be under the #1 or the #6 distributor terminal; it needs to be under #1, otherwise you need to turn the crankshaft another 360 degrees. This will give you your TDC. In most engines, the spark plug will fire 10 to 14 degrees before the piston reaches the top of its stroke. You can then advance the timing from there, which is known as BTDC.
Once this is established, you can start to experiment with the timing. If you want to advance the timing, a good rule of thumb is to turn the distributor in the opposite direction of the rotor, which is clockwise. You can also retard the timing by turning the distributor in the same direction as the rotor (counter-clockwise).
We also recommend using a timing light and other tools to help you set and advance the timing. While some suggest the ear test or using your thumb to set the TDC, it's always better to be safe and sure when working on these engines.
Do 302 And 351 Engines Have The Same Distributor?
First, there are two types of 1993 and older 302 engines: those advertised as a "302" and engines advertised as a "5.0" (such as in Mustangs and F-Series pickups). The quickest way to confirm which one you have is to look for an ignition module bolted directly to the bottom of the distributor, which is on "5.0" 302 engines. the standard 302 engine will have an external ignition module box, typically in the fender well area. Also, there is more than one type of 351 engine: the 351W (Windsor) and the 351M (Modified). Each 302,5.0, 351W, and 351M engine uses a different distributor, so none are cross-compatible even though they may look similar at first glance.
302 Engine Distributor Specs
Newer 302 "5.0" engine distributors will have different specifications than the earlier "302" distributors that came with the engine. However, there are still many similarities and specifications that distributors have to meet to work with the Ford 302 engines. Some of these specs include:
- Matching gear material of the distributor to the camshaft to prevent wear; in this case, steel
- Most 302 distributors from before the 1980s are mechanical advanced types
- Mechanical and vacuum advances control engine timing
- The distributor mount should be flush with the top of the block where the engine's intake sits
- The distributor housing is usually made of aluminum
- 6-14 degrees BTDC for optimal timing on Ford 302 engines
Some of these specs may change depending on the type of 302 distributor you use.
Most Popular Ford 302 Distributors
Best Distributors For Ford 302
Finding a distributor for your Ford 302 engine isn't always easy, especially if you don't know where to start. The good news is that finding the Ford 302 parts you need is a breeze when you shop with JEGS, including distributors that will fit your 302 engine like a glove. Learn about some of our top choices below.
1. HEI Distributor For Ford Small Block 221-302 V8 Engines
When you want a distributor that's flexible and easy to work with, the HEI Distributor for Ford Small Block 221-302 V8 Engines from JEGS is the best choice. This distributor is unique because it will fit any Ford 302 engine from 1968 to 1995 (not 5.0 engines). Whether you want to restore an old Mustang or swap a late-model 302 for something else, this distributor has you covered. Moreover, installing this distributor is a breeze with drop-in installation using the 1-wire hookup. This distributor is also well-made with CNC aluminum that will last years and is compatible with many engine variations.
2. SSR-III Ready-to-Run (RTR) Pro-Series Distributor For Ford Small Block 221-302 V8 Engines
The JEGS SSR-III Ready-to-Run (RTR) Pro-Series Distributor for Ford Small Block 221-302 V8 Engines is for car enthusiasts who want to maximize power, durability, and overall performance. This distributor comes ready to install right out of the box, and any DIYer can get the job done in a few hours due to its easy 3-wire hookup. While it's a little more complicated to connect than the HEI distributor we covered earlier, it has a forged aluminum housing and magnetic trigger. Plus, it's rated at 35% higher output voltage. This distributor is perfect to advance the timing and squeeze more power out of your engine.
3. Holley 565-202BK EFI Gen 2 Dual Sync Distributor For Small Block Ford 302
Holley is one of the best names in the industry when it comes to maximizing performance with classic engines, including small-block Ford 302s. This is one of the best options for running an EFI system. The Holley EFI Gen 2 Dual Sync distributor can handle high RPMS thanks to its precision-machined shutter wheel and anodized CNC machined billet aluminum housing, making this thing practically bulletproof. What's more, if you're already running a Holley EFI or a Holley Sniper EFI, this part is plug-and-play; all you need is an adapter harness. The Holley 565-202BK EFI Gen 2 Dual Sync Distributor for Small Block Ford 302 also gives you, the user, a lot of control with precise timing control. Additionally, this Holley distributor features LED lights that make the installation process hassle-free.
