Medium duty ford 429 ignition conversion?

[Stiff_clutch]

So before we go any further I’m not here to start a big deal over duraspark vs hei. I’ve seen that while searching other forums looking for info.

Have a 1990 f700 with the 429 and (I think?) a Clark 5 speed. It was sitting for a few years.

Want to get this thing running because I do have very seldom uses for a dump truck but all of the wiring has been screwed up by rats and past “repairs”before me.

My plan is to see if a 429/460 hei distributor will work. It’s currently using the duraspark.

Has anyone had experience with this before?

 

[Brons2]

Subscribed

 

[Oldswagon]

Do you mean a distributor like this:

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/...XZufo-FH2GO4gxPSXOe_k1GpVEjmkoOcaAtSjEALw_wcB

If so, there isn't much to the install. You need a good 12 volt switched power source. You can use the original ignition power supply wire if is in good shape and is of sufficient size. Or run a 10 gauge wire with a fuse from the solenoid and have a relay switch it with the original ignition wire.

I haven't specifically done the conversion on a 429 Ford, but have done other engines. You probably want to avoid the really cheap Chinese knock off HEIs.

 

[Stiff_clutch]

The main question I guess is, will the 460 distributor fit the 429 considering it’s the medium duty version?

 

[Oldswagon]

The main question I guess is, will the 460 distributor fit the 429 considering it’s the medium duty version?

Yes, the distbutors are the same physical dimensions.

 

[Stiff_clutch]

Yes, the distbutors are the same physical dimensions.

In that case, I just ordered a jegs house brand cheapie to try out! I appreciate you man! You’re the only one across three forums that could give me a straight answer before I wasted time and money.

 

[dfarr67]

Are you talking about GM HEI- as much as I like it- keep it as close to Ford stock as you can.

 

[Stiff_clutch]

Rewiring and fixing the hackery and rats to do that isn’t really cost or time efficient- especially since it’ll see only about 100-150 miles a year