i just recently got a 54 merc 256 4 barrel manifold that im gonna run on my 239. its setup with an adapter and a new 390cfm holley. from what ive read, i have to switch to a 57 + distributor, swap the drive gear over from the old distributor and switch the oil pump as well. Is this all i need to do? anything else ? also are there any particular distributors anyone recommends. any help is appreciated. thanks

Welcome aboard Greengrenade, glad to see you here.  This is the most helpful and knowledgable bunch of folks on the internet. You'll find answers here for any and all questions.  I sent you a text earlier.  I got my distributor from OReilly it was about $60 for a rebuilt and I think they sell a completely new distributor for about $80.  Either would work fine for you.  Ask for a distributor for a 64 F100.  Good luck with the changes.  I think you'll be able to tell a difference.

Butch Lawson

Manchester,  TN

Hi welcome to this site I have a 54 mer. 2 dr. ht. put a 57 ford intake and a 350/400 holley 4 barrel on it it run,s great Inever changed the dist. but then I don,t hot rod so I think it depends on what you us it for  just my thought shakey Pete

Greengernade:

You'll also need a '57 and later cap and rotor.

John - "The Hoosier Hurricane"

I've done the swap. If you need any help, ask away.

  Dennis in Lititz PA

Welcome to the site!   ..If using a ’57 or ’58 distributor, insure that the ball bearing breaker plate assembly moves freely and is smooth in operation if planning on hooking up the vacuum advance.  Also insure on any ’57 and up distributor that the ‘below the breaker plate’ mechanical advance mechanism is working freely otherwise sluggish performance will result.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)