1951 Ford Custom Performance Distributors

Keep Your 1951 Ford Custom in Top Shape with a Quality Performance Distributor

When it comes to maintaining or upgrading your 1951 Ford Custom, choosing high-quality parts is crucial for ensuring your vehicle stays in top shape, whether you’re tackling a repair or enhancing performance. At Advance Auto Parts, we know how important it is to find the right Performance Distributor for your Custom. We currently carry a top Performance Distributor in stock that is built to last. Whether you’re replacing a damaged Performance Distributor or looking to upgrade, our selection for the 1951 Ford Custom ensures you’ll find exactly what you need to keep your vehicle looking and performing its best.

Explore Related Parts

And while you’re here, don’t forget to check out related part categories like Performance Ignition Products and Performance Radiators to complete your upgrade or repair project. At Advance Auto Parts, we’re proud to offer the parts and expertise to keep your 1951 Ford Custom running smoothly and looking great.

Essential 1951 Ford Custom Performance Distributors

Mallory – Malry Unilite Dist.: 49-53 Flathead Ford (Part No.3727501)

Malry Unilite Dist.: 49-53 Flathead Ford

from

$549.99
The industry standard with adjustable mechanical advance curve. Triggered by photo-optic infrared LED system. Improved combustion efficiency and economy, increased spark plug life and cold weather starting, and maintenance free operation.

Product Features:
  • Improved Combustion And Economy
  • Increased Spark Plug Life
  • Improved Cold Weather Starting
  • Maintenance Free Operation
  • Accurate Spark Timing
  • Self-Lubricating Bushings
  • Years Of Trouble-Free Service
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford 302; Pro-Billet; Small Cap (Part No.8579)

Distributor; Ford 302; Pro-Billet; Small Cap

from

$435.99
MSD engineers fit all of their high performance distributor experience into a special compact housing designed to be less obtrusive for Ford engines. The diameter of the special cap and housing are 5/8 inch smaller than stock Ford distributors providing extra room in front of the engine. The new MSD cap features spark plug style terminals and is firmly screwed down to the housing. The distributor relies on MSD’s race proven magnetic pick-up and precision reluctor to deliver accurate trigger signals to the MSD ignition throughout high rpm. The reluctor assembly is turned by a hardened steel shaft which rides in a sealed ball bearing for high rpm stability and endurance. Mounted to the top of this shaft is a fully adjustable mechanical advance assembly. The rate at which the chromoly assembly advances the timing is easily controlled by changing the supplied advance springs and stop bushing for total advance.

Product Features:
  • Billet housing 5/8 in. smaller dia. than stock Ford distributors
  • Must Be Used w/An MSD Ignition Control
  • Supplied w/small dia. cap w/HEI style terminals; race and rotor
  • Will accept PN[8441] Cap-A-Dapt
  • Nylon pads ensure smooth operation of the advance weights
  • Advance weight pins are staked and tig welded to the plate
  • Mech. advance assem. can be locked out for crank trigger systems
  • Advance plate and weights are fine blanked from chrome moly steel
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford 351W; Ready-to-Run (Part No.8354)

Distributor; Ford 351W; Ready-to-Run

from

$620.99
MSD’s Ready-to-Run Ford distributors are the perfect upgrade for bulky Duraspark systems or ancient breaker point models. All you need to do is drop it in the engine, connect three wires and fire the engine. Each distributor features an ignition module that produces a powerful inductive spark to improve combustion of the fuel mixture resulting in quick starts, smooth idle and increased performance. The billet aluminum housings of these distributors are 5/8 In. smaller in diameter to accommodate induction setups and tight engine compartments. A maintenance-free magnetic pick-up is responsible for triggering the high voltage sparks while a sealed ball bearing guides an oversized shaft. Beneath the bolt down cap and MSD race rotor you’ll find MSD’s accurate mechanical advance assembly. Different advance springs and stop bushings are supplied so you can easily tune a curve to match your needs. Plus, there is a vacuum advance canister to increase economy on long drives.

Product Features:
  • Now includes built-in Rev Limiter
  • Built-in module produces a 7.5 amp single spark through high rpm
  • Vacuum advance canister for improved economy (can be locked out)
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
  • Housing Is 5/8 in. Smaller In Diameter Than Stock Ford Distr.
  • Maintenance-free magnetic pickup and precision reluctor
  • Creates stable trigger signals throughout the rpm range
  • QPQ coated polished steel shaft; guided by sealed ball bearings
  • Advance plate and weights are fine blanked from chrome moly steel
  • Mech. advance assem. can be locked out for crank trigger systems
  • Advance weight pins are staked and tig welded to the plate
  • Nylon pads ensure smooth operation of the advance weights
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford 351C-460; Pro-Billet; Small Cap (Part No.8577)

Distributor; Ford 351C-460; Pro-Billet; Small Cap

from

$479.99
MSD engineers fit all of their high performance distributor experience into a special compact housing designed to be less obtrusive for Ford engines. The diameter of the special cap and housing are 5/8 In. smaller than stock Ford distributors providing extra room in front of the engine. The new MSD cap features spark plug style terminals and is firmly screwed down to the housing. The distributor relies on MSD’s race proven magnetic pickup and precision reluctor to deliver accurate trigger signals to the MSD Ignition throughout high RPM. The reluctor assembly is turned by a hardened steel shaft which rides in a sealed ball bearing for high RPM stability and endurance. Mounted to the top of this shaft is a fully adjustable mechanical advance assembly. The rate at which the chromoly assembly advances the timing is easily controlled by changing the supplied advance springs and stop bushing for total advance. Note: must be used with an MSD 6, 7 or 8-series ignition.

Product Features:
  • Billet housing 5/8 in. smaller dia. than stock Ford distributors
  • Must Be Used w/An MSD Ignition Control
  • Supplied w/small dia. cap w/HEI style terminals; race and rotor
  • Will accept PN[8441] Cap-A-Dapt
  • Nylon pads ensure smooth operation of the advance weights
  • Advance weight pins are staked and tig welded to the plate
  • Mech. advance assem. can be locked out for crank trigger systems
  • Advance plate and weights are fine blanked from chrome moly steel
  • QPQ coated polished steel shaft; guided by sealed ball bearings
  • Maintenance-free magnetic pickup and precision reluctor
  • Creates stable trigger signals throughout the rpm range
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
See More

Mallory – Unilite Electronic Ignition Distributor Series 37 (Part No.3755101)

Unilite Electronic Ignition Distributor Series 37

from

$599.99
Unilite Electronic Ignition Distributor Series 37

MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford FE; Ready-to-Run (Part No.8595)

Distributor; Ford FE; Ready-to-Run

from

$620.99
MSD is excited to offer two Ready-to-Run distributors for two classic Ford engines! These distributors are the answer to weak breaker points or rebuilt aftermarket models. Inside the billet housing there is a high-output ignition module. When the maintenance-free magnetic pick-up signals the module to fire, up to 7.5 A is sent to the coil where a powerful spark is created. This improved spark output results in quick starts, snappy throttle response and terrific drivability. The distributors are equipped with a vacuum advance canister for cruising economy. Plus, there is a mechanical advance assembly that is mounted on top of the distributor shaft making it easy to adjust the advance to meet your needs. Another great feature of the Ready-to-Run distributors is their simple installation! All you need to do is connect three wires and you’ll be cruising!

Product Features:
  • Simple and clean three wire installation
  • CARB E.O. Approved
  • Does not require an MSD Ignition Control
  • Supplied w/small dia. cap w/HEI style terminals; race and rotor
  • Will accept PN[8441] Cap-A-Dapt
  • Nylon pads ensure smooth operation of the advance weights
  • Advance weight pins are staked and tig welded to the plate
  • Mech. advance assem. can be locked out for crank trigger systems
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford 351W; with Hydraulic Roller Steel Gear (Part No.85840)

Distributor; Ford 351W; with Hydraulic Roller Steel Gear

from

$549.99
MSD Pro-Billet Distributors are the finest performance and racing distributors available. Every feature has been engineered to endure the rigors of high performance and racing engines. Whether cruising the streets or racing stock cars, dragsters, boats or trucks, MSD has a distributor for it. MSD uses state-of-the-art, Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) mills and lathes to machine each housing. After a long series of precise cuts and movements, the billet is formed into a flawless distributor housing that is accurate to within 0.001″. The flex-free housings are lightweight, have no porosity or weak areas and look great on polished, show quality engines.

Product Features:
  • Maintenance-free magnetic pickup and advance assembly
  • Same height and width as PN[8584]
  • Maintenance-free magnetic pickup and precision reluctor create stable trigger signals throughout the RPM range
  • Polished steel shaft is QPQ coated and guided by a sealed ball bearing and extra long sintered bushing
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford Y Block; Ready-to-Run (Part No.8383)

Distributor; Ford Y Block; Ready-to-Run

from

$849.99
MSD is excited to offer two ready-to-run distributors for two classic Ford engines. These distributors are the answer to weak breaker points or rebuilt aftermarket models. Inside the billet housing there is a high-output ignition module. When the maintenance-free magnetic pick-up signals the module to fire, up to 7.5 amps is sent to the coil where a powerful spark is created. This improved spark output results in quick starts, snappy throttle response and terrific drivability. The distributors are equipped with a vacuum advance canister for cruising economy. Plus, there is a mechanical advance assembly that is mounted on top of the distributor shaft making it easy to adjust the advance to meet your needs. Another great feature of the ready-to-run distributors is their simple installation. All you need to do is connect three wires and you’ll be cruising.

Product Features:
  • Now includes built-in Rev Limiter
  • No CARB Exemption Order Number
  • Does not require an MSD Ignition Control
  • Built-in module produces a 7.5 amp single spark through high rpm
  • Vacuum advance canister for improved economy (can be locked out)
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
  • Housing Is 5/8 in. Smaller In Diameter Than Stock Ford Distr.
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford 351W; with Edelbrock Victor Jr (Part No.85805)

Distributor; Ford 351W; with Edelbrock Victor Jr

from

$526.99
MSD Pro-Billet Distributors are the finest performance and racing distributors available. Every feature has been engineered to endure the rigors of high performance and racing engines. Whether cruising the streets or racing stock cars, dragsters, boats or trucks, MSD has a distributor for it. MSD uses state-of-the-art, Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) mills and lathes to machine each housing. After a long series of precise cuts and movements, the billet is formed into a flawless distributor housing that is accurate to within 0.001″. The flex-free housings are lightweight, have no porosity or weak areas and look great on polished, show quality engines.

Product Features:
  • Same features as PN[8584]
  • Use w/Edelbrock Victor Jr. man. for add. clearance at water neck
  • No CARB Exemption Order Number
  • Maintenance-free magnetic pickup and precision reluctor create stable trigger signals throughout the RPM range
  • Polished steel shaft is QPQ coated and guided by two sealed ball bearings
  • Advance weight pins are staked and tig welded to the plate
  • Supplied with cap-a-dapt and rotor (accepts MSD socket style caps)
  • Must be used with an MSD Ignition control
See More

MSD Ignition – Ford 351C-460 Performance Distributor with Vacuum Advance (Part No.8350)

Ford 351C-460 Performance Distributor with Vacuum Advance

from

$620.99
MSD’s Ready-to-Run Ford distributors are the perfect upgrade for bulky Duraspark systems or ancient breaker point models. All you need to do is drop it in the engine, connect three wires and fire the engine. Each distributor features an ignition module that produces a powerful inductive spark to improve combustion of the fuel mixture resulting in quick starts, smooth idle and increased performance. The billet aluminum housings of these distributors are 5/8 In. smaller in diameter to accommodate induction setups and tight engine compartments. A maintenance-free magnetic pick-up is responsible for triggering the high voltage sparks while a sealed ball bearing guides an oversized shaft. Beneath the bolt down cap and MSD race rotor you’ll find MSD’s accurate mechanical advance assembly. Different advance springs and stop bushings are supplied so you can easily tune a curve to match your needs. Plus, there is a vacuum advance canister to increase economy on long drives.

Product Features:
  • Simple And Clean Installation w/Only Three Wires To Connect
  • Built-in module produces a 7.5 amp single spark through high rpm
  • Easy-to-adjust mech. advance w/supplied springs and stop bushings
  • Vacuum advance canister for improved economy (can be locked out)
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
  • Housing Is 5/8 in. Smaller In Diameter Than Stock Ford Distr.
  • Maintenance-free magnetic pickup and precision reluctor
  • Polished steel shaft is guided by a sealed ball bearing
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford 351W; Pro-Billet; Small Cap (Part No.8578)

Distributor; Ford 351W; Pro-Billet; Small Cap

from

$533.99
MSD engineers fit all of their high performance distributor experience into a special compact housing designed to be less obtrusive for Ford engines. The diameter of the special cap and housing are 5/8 inch smaller than stock Ford distributors providing extra room in front of the engine. The new MSD cap features spark plug style terminals and is firmly screwed down to the housing. The distributor relies on MSD’s race proven magnetic pick-up and precision reluctor to deliver accurate trigger signals to the MSD ignition throughout high rpm. The reluctor assembly is turned by a hardened steel shaft which rides in a sealed ball bearing for high rpm stability and endurance. Mounted to the top of this shaft is a fully adjustable mechanical advance assembly. The rate at which the chromoly assembly advances the timing is easily controlled by changing the supplied advance springs and stop bushing for total advance.

Product Features:
  • Billet housing 5/8 in. smaller dia. than stock Ford distributors
  • Must Be Used w/An MSD Ignition Control
  • Supplied w/small dia. cap w/HEI style terminals; race and rotor
  • Will accept PN[8441] Cap-A-Dapt
  • Nylon pads ensure smooth operation of the advance weights
  • Advance weight pins are staked and tig welded to the plate
  • Mech. advance assem. can be locked out for crank trigger systems
  • Advance plate and weights are fine blanked from chrome moly steel
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford 351W; Ready-to-Run; with Steel Gear (Part No.83541)

Distributor; Ford 351W; Ready-to-Run; with Steel Gear

from

$749.99
MSD’s Ready-to-Run Ford distributors are the perfect upgrade for bulky Duraspark systems or ancient breaker point models. All you need to do is drop it in the engine, connect three wires and fire the engine. Each distributor features an ignition module that produces a powerful inductive spark to improve combustion of the fuel mixture resulting in quick starts, smooth idle and increased performance. The billet aluminum housings of these distributors are 5/8 In. smaller in diameter to accommodate induction setups and tight engine compartments. A maintenance-free magnetic pick-up is responsible for triggering the high voltage sparks while a sealed ball bearing guides an oversized shaft. Beneath the bolt down cap and MSD race rotor you’ll find MSD’s accurate mechanical advance assembly. Different advance springs and stop bushings are supplied so you can easily tune a curve to match your needs. Plus, there is a vacuum advance canister to increase economy on long drives.

Product Features:
  • Equipped w/Steel Gear
  • CARB E.O. Approved
  • Does not require an MSD Ignition Control
  • Supplied w/small dia. cap w/HEI style terminals; race and rotor
  • Will accept PN[8441] Cap-A-Dapt
  • Nylon pads ensure smooth operation of the advance weights
  • Advance weight pins are staked and tig welded to the plate
  • Mech. advance assem. can be locked out for crank trigger systems
See More

Mallory – Mallory Unilite Dist.: 332-428 Fe Ford (Part No.3755301)

Mallory Unilite Dist.: 332-428 Fe Ford

from

$599.99
The industry standard with adjustable mechanical advance curve. Triggered by photo-optic infrared LED system. Improved combustion efficiency and economy, increased spark plug life and cold weather starting, and maintenance free operation.

Product Features:
  • Improved Combustion And Economy
  • Increased Spark Plug Life
  • Improved Cold Weather Starting
  • Maintenance Free Operation
  • Accurate Spark Timing
  • Self-Lubricating Bushings
  • Years Of Trouble-Free Service
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford TFI; 351W; no Module; Hydraulic Roll (Part No.8451)

Distributor; Ford TFI; 351W; no Module; Hydraulic Roll

from

$632.99
When you start making serious power with your EFI Ford, the stock distributor shaft is one of the weak links of the engine. These Pro-Billet models answer the need for an affordable replacement in a strong and great looking package. Each distributor starts as a solid billet that is secured into a state of the art (CNC) machine where it is transformed into a precision housing.

Product Features:
  • Drop in billet replacement for late model Ford TFI 5.8L dist.
  • Supplied w/steel gear to work w/factory roller camshafts
  • Factory style ignition module connector accepts factory wiring
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
  • QPQ coated polished steel shaft; guided by sealed ball bearings
  • Supplied w/Late Model Distributor Cap And Rotor
  • Legal to install in all 50 states
See More

Mallory – Malry Unilite Dist.: 68-95 351C-460 Ford (Part No.3756701)

Malry Unilite Dist.: 68-95 351C-460 Ford

from

$599.99
The industry standard with adjustable mechanical advance curve. Triggered by photo-optic infrared LED system. Improved combustion efficiency and economy, increased spark plug life and cold weather starting, and maintenance free operation.

Product Features:
  • Improved Combustion And Economy
  • Increased Spark Plug Life
  • Improved Cold Weather Starting
  • Maintenance Free Operation
  • Accurate Spark Timing
  • Self-Lubricating Bushings
  • Years Of Trouble-Free Service
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor; Ford 351C-460; Ready-to-Run with Steel Gear (Part No.83501)

Distributor; Ford 351C-460; Ready-to-Run with Steel Gear

from

$825.99
MSD’s Ready-to-Run Ford distributors are the perfect upgrade for bulky Duraspark systems or ancient breaker point models. All you need to do is drop it in the engine, connect three wires and fire the engine. Each distributor features an ignition module that produces a powerful inductive spark to improve combustion of the fuel mixture resulting in quick starts, smooth idle and increased performance. The billet aluminum housings of these distributors are 5/8 In. smaller in diameter to accommodate induction setups and tight engine compartments. A maintenance-free magnetic pick-up is responsible for triggering the high voltage sparks while a sealed ball bearing guides an oversized shaft. Beneath the bolt down cap and MSD race rotor you’ll find MSD’s accurate mechanical advance assembly. Different advance springs and stop bushings are supplied so you can easily tune a curve to match your needs. Plus, there is a vacuum advance canister to increase economy on long drives.

Product Features:
  • Advance weight pins are staked and tig welded to the plate
  • Nylon pads ensure smooth operation of the advance weights
  • Supplied w/small dia. cap w/HEI style terminals; race and rotor
  • Will accept PN[8441] Cap-A-Dapt
  • Does not require an MSD Ignition Control
  • CARB E.O. Approved
  • Now includes built-in Rev Limiter
  • Mech. advance assem. can be locked out for crank trigger systems
  • Advance plate and weights are fine blanked from chrome moly steel
  • QPQ coated for friction reduction
  • Equipped w/Steel Gear
  • Simple And Clean Installation w/Only Three Wires To Connect
See More

Most Popular Performance Distributor for 1951 Ford Customs

Enhance your 1951 Ford Custom with this popular Performance Distributor we have in stock, for $549.99.

Mallory – Malry Unilite Dist.: 49-53 Flathead Ford (Part No.3727501)

Malry Unilite Dist.: 49-53 Flathead Ford

from

$549.99
The industry standard with adjustable mechanical advance curve. Triggered by photo-optic infrared LED system. Improved combustion efficiency and economy, increased spark plug life and cold weather starting, and maintenance free operation.

Product Features:
  • Improved Combustion And Economy
  • Increased Spark Plug Life
  • Improved Cold Weather Starting
  • Maintenance Free Operation
  • Accurate Spark Timing
  • Self-Lubricating Bushings
  • Years Of Trouble-Free Service
See More

FAQs for 1951 Ford Custom Performance Distributors

What’s the price range for 1951 Ford Custom Performance Distributors?

We currently have just one Performance Distributors for the 1951 Ford Custom in stock: Malry Unilite Dist.: 49-53 Flathead Ford and it costs $549.99.

Does Advance Auto Parts sell Performance Distributors for other Ford Custom model years?

Yes, we carry Performance Distributors for 16 model years of Ford Customs between 1949 and 1976. The following model years are the most popular for Performance Distributor purchases: 1976, 1975, 1974, 1973, 1972, 1971, 1970, 1969, and 1968.

Does Advance Auto Parts sell Performance Distributors for any other 1951 Ford models?

What types of Performance Distributors do you sell for my 1951 Ford Custom?

We currently have just 1 Performance Distributor in stock for a 1951 Ford Custom, and as of 11/2/25, it is a Performance Distributor.

Can I get help with 1951 Ford Custom Performance Distributor orders?

Contact our customer support team by chat or phone, through the help desk page, where you can find instant answers about Ford Performance Distributors and more.

What is your return policy for Ford Custom Performance Distributors?

Advance Auto Parts keeps returns simple. For new Ford Custom Performance Distributors and accessories, your online orders can be returned, in their original condition, within 45 days. For requirements, see the returns page.