Physical Difference In Prestolite And Autolite Distributor

How can I tell the difference ? There is no tag on the distributor and can't find any numbers or letters
on it . Its a 64 f134 engine. Is there a "shape" or tell-tell difference in the two?
Wanting to put a Petronix ignition in and read it depends which one, requires a different unit between the Prestolite and autolite.

 

There are differences in how the plate holding the points and condenser attach. Here is a Prestolite. It has a pretty large data plate on the bottom side.

If that doesn't help I also have an example of an autolite that I could get some photos of.

 

The plate does not look the same. The rounded top of the screw tabs that holds the plate down has a small "v"notch on each side of the tab on mine.
If you have a couple of pictures of the autolite you could post, I would appreciate it. Thanks

 

OK I'll try and get some photos for you tomorrow

 

Thanks.

 

OK, here's the other distributor I have. There is no data plate I can find. Its main difference appears to be the tabs on the side that attach the plate to the housing. They are vertical. I think the kit that fits this style is the Pertronix 1548. That is also labeled as being for a Prestolite distributor so perhaps what I have here is a different model Prestolite distributor and not an Autolite.

 

Thanks kneb, this one looks just like mine. Unless I find more info I will order one and see if it fits..

 

I have an autolite and the number on it was not a unit they had kit for. They offer a custom where you send them the unit and they install/make it. They warned me it 'could' be up to $250. But I gambled and they did it for $99. So I'm not sure what the difference is, but not all auto light for F134 are the same. My guess is they used standard parts just had to figure out which ones. Mine is as an IAY 4012 6N off a 58 12 volt FWIW.

 

Mickey, Where is the numbers located on your distributor ?

 

It's on a plate on the side of it. I'll try to get a pic later today. I don't know what the actual differences are between the models, but they 'look' the same to me.

 

Looks like the plates may have been glued on. I can, find even a pin hole for a fastener on mine.

 

Mine was rivited. Day went to hell so didn't get out to garage for pic.

 

Here are the pics. Note that this is with the Pertronix installed.

 

Does the letters "IAY" refer to the mounting plate on the auto-lite and Prestolite ?

 

No idea.

 

MK, could you give me the measurement from outside to outside of the mounting ears?

The list the #1548 as fitting the Prestolite , but it mounts just like mine does. Still don,t know
what I have ??? Thought a measure would help.

 

I'll try to dig out the original plate and take pic with tape, eaRly this week.

 

The tape in the pic is distorted. The actual measurement is 2 13/16. Note it also has a stamp that says Autolite.

 

I appreciate you taking the time with this. My plate has no markings like this one. Also the incoming wire connection is different
I found an old welding machine with a L134 engine in it. Had to wade through a briar patch 7 feet tall to get to where I could check
the distributor. It had a Prestolite IAY 4401 on it. Forgot to measure the dia., will go back. Looks like your plate measures
two and 7/32.
Thanks again.

 

No it doesn't. It's the angle of photo, etc. if you do the measurement manually it's actually 2 13/16 like I said in my post. TRUST ME.