Selection of Replacement Distributor '64 c10 w '75 truck 350 sbc

[Fredthecat]

I need shopping / install tips for overhaul/update/ replacement of stock points distributor for 1975 Chevrolet truck 350 V8.

Installed in 1964 C10 LB pickup with truck 4 speed, Holley 4160, headers.

As purchased: Runs rich, rough. #5 cylinder wire misfires, found cap terminal green. New plugs/wires.

Thinkin pull / rebuild/ or junk distributor, appears stock with points /condenser Axcell cap.

R&R Holley 4160 too.

Distributor looks tight against firewall for install in 64 C10

Are there good (NAPA) better (SUMMIT) $$ best (Unknown racing) ways to go for new distributor? Get rid of points? Replace with what? Don’t see entire MSD system in future.

$200 budget.

Need regular reliability and low end torque more than performance for general old driver pickup truck.

Sources? What works well? Whats in your SBC?
Thanks

Fredthecat

[Captainfab]

All you need is a basic HEI distributor although some will tell you there isn't enough room. I have installed several into '63-'66 trucks without issue. Yes the clearance is a little close, but not so close to cause an issue. You can get one from your local auto parts store, or also from Summit Racing. I would stay away from the cheap made in China ones found on ebay.

[Fredthecat]

Thanks, your experience helps a lot.

Suggestions on a good-better $100-300 HEI distributor that is known to fit firewall in '64 with 350?

I've read some have "small cap" and external coil...any need for this?

I stop in at Summit Racing in Reno once a month on VA Dr trips.

Thank you.

[sampsmit000]

I have this http://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-850001-1 on mine! Fits with about a inch of clearance.

[60chevyjim]

Originally Posted by sampsmit000

I have this http://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-850001-1 on mine! Fits with about a inch of clearance.

looks like the same exact one as on ebay for less than $50
I bought 5 from ebay for cars n trucks that I built and I never had a problem with one them yet ..
if you buy parts from napa they are made in china too ,
just like everything is now .

[Captainfab]

This one will work just fine. Of course you will need plug wires to go with it.

Originally Posted by Fredthecat

Thanks, your experience helps a lot.

Suggestions on a good-better $100-300 HEI distributor that is known to fit firewall in '64 with 350?

I've read some have "small cap" and external coil...any need for this?

I stop in at Summit Racing in Reno once a month on VA Dr trips.

Thank you.

Originally Posted by sampsmit000

I have this http://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-850001-1 on mine! Fits with about a inch of clearance.

[Dismas]

I went with a summit distributor, msd box, and external coil and love it.

My 66 had a HEI in it, but it was hitting the firewall. I installed this: http://www.summitracing.com/nv/parts...0050/overview/ , and have zero regrets, and plenty of clearance from the firewall now

[luvbowties]

Although I am sold on GM style HEI w/coil in cap, here is 1 more route: a points eliminator kit. I've used them(or other brands such as Pertronix)since Sears sold similar kits in the sixties and never had anything but good service. Keeps your stock look under the hood and works just like they are advertised--and keep your small cap as well. Never change points again......unless they break?!?!? Simple to install too. Plus, they keep timing highly accurate.

>> http://www.summitracing.com/parts/acc-2010acc/overview/ <<

Sam

[Captainfab]

The only thing I don't like about that distributor is that it doesn't have a vacuum advance. A vacuum advance helps with normal street driving.

This one is a little more money, but has the vacuum advance.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-850055/overview/

Originally Posted by Dismas

I went with a summit distributor, msd box, and external coil and love it.

My 66 had a HEI in it, but it was hitting the firewall. I installed this: http://www.summitracing.com/nv/parts...0050/overview/ , and have zero regrets, and plenty of clearance from the firewall now

[urmyboyblue]

I would check your point distributor for slop in the shaft- if it is good, I would suggest a Pertronix to replace the points and condensor, a new NAPA cap and rotor, and some good plug wires (not store brand Autozone, Advance, etc. and no ACCEL crap). I have never had good service out of anything that said ACCEL on it- wires, distributor, anything. Store brand wires work great for about a year, then they break down and start arcing over. At least that is my experience.