1956 Ford Thunderbird Distributors

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Keep Your 1956 Ford Thunderbird in Top Shape with Quality Distributors

Whether you’re repairing or upgrading your Distributor, using high-quality parts is key to keeping your 1956 Ford Thunderbird looking sharp and performing at its best. At Advance Auto Parts we carry a wide selection of dependable options, including Distributor Rotor Buttons, Distributor Modulator Sensor, and Distributors. Whether you’re replacing a damaged part or enhancing your truck’s style and protection, you’ll find exactly what you need to get the job done right.

Competitive Prices and Extensive Inventory

The average price for a 1956 Ford Thunderbird Distributor at Advance Auto Parts is around $220.37, with a range that starts at $26.99 and goes up to $767.99. With 4 options in stock from 3 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy. Popular picks like Distributor Rotor, Distributor Cap, and 12823 Magnet Sleeve (only) for 1282 Ignitor Kit start at just $26.99 and offer a great balance of form and function.

Explore Related Parts

While you’re upgrading or replacing your Distributor, don’t forget to check out other key components like Ignition Coils and Boots and Spark Plugs. At Advance Auto Parts, we’re here to help you keep your 1956 Ford Thunderbird in peak condition, inside and out.

Essential 1956 Ford Thunderbird Distributors

PerTronix – 12823 Magnet Sleeve (only) for 1282 Ignitor Kit (Part No.12823)

12823 Magnet Sleeve (only) for 1282 Ignitor Kit

from

$57.99
For over thirty years, the Ignitor has proven itself in applications ranging from race cars to tractors. The Ignitor replaces breaker points and troublesome factory electronic ignitions.

Product Features:
  • PerTronix 12823 Magnet Sleeve (only) for 1282 Ignitor Kit
  • Replacement Parts (only) for Ignitor and Ignitor II Kits
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MSD Ignition – Distributor, Ford 351W, Vacuum Advance (Part No.8478)

Distributor, Ford 351W, Vacuum Advance

from

$716.99
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 is 5/8″ smaller in diameter than stock Ford distributors
  • CARB E.O. Approved
  • Easy-to-adjust mechanical advance with supplied springs and stop bushings
  • Vacuum advance canister for improved economy (can be locked out)
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
  • 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
  • Advance plate and weights are fine blanked from chrome moly steel and QPQ coated for friction reduction
  • Mechanical advance assembly 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
  • Supplied with small diameter cap with HEI style terminals and race rotor (will accept 8441 Cap-A-Dapt)
  • Must be used with an MSD Ignition Control
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Top Street Performance – Ford FE Big Block Light Duty V8 (352-428) (330-391) HEI Distributor with Blue Cap (Part No.JM6508BL)

Ford FE Big Block Light Duty V8 (352-428) (330-391) HEI Distributor with Blue Cap

from

$134.99
TSP HEI Distributor has everything you need, all under one cap. With a high-quality aluminum housing and hardened steel dual bushing construction, it is built to last. It features fully adjustable mechanical and vacuum advances, meaning precision is a breeze. It has a high-output module, high-spark 65,000 volt coil, solid brass terminals, and an easy one-wire hookup.

Product Features:
  • Advance Type: Vacuum and Mechanical
  • Coil Type: HEI Coil (Included)
  • Terminal Style: Male
  • Trigger Style: Magnetic
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MSD Ignition – Distributor, Pro-Billet, Ford Y-Block (Part No.83831)

Distributor, Pro-Billet, Ford Y-Block

from

$767.99
Rather than ancient breaker points, this distributor uses a maintenance-free non-magnetic pickup to trigger the ignition control. Atop the distributor shaft is our proven centrifugal advance that allows you to alter the rate and amount of mechanical advance which is a very important tuning step with a Y-Block.

Product Features:
  • Vacuum advance canister for improved economy (can be locked out)
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
  • 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
  • Advance plate and weights are fine blanked from chrome moly steel and QPQ coated for friction reduction
  • Mechanical advance assembly 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
  • Requires an MSD Ignition Control
  • May hit firewall seam on ’57-’59 full size cars.
  • Requires an MSD ignition control
  • May hit firewall seam on 57-59 full size cars.
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Carquest Premium – Distributor T2893A: 100% New, With Cap and Rotor (Part No.T2893A)

Distributor T2893A: 100% New, With Cap and Rotor

from

$88.99
Carquest Premium distributors are built to meet or exceed the original equipment (OE) specifications for each application. Our distributors are built by a manufacturer that meets IATF 16949 certified framework, an internationally recognized proof of quality in the automotive industry. Each distributor is supplied with the cap, rotor and any seals needed for installation. Carquest Premium distributors are 100% new and undergo extensive validation testing to ensure long-lasting ignition performance and reliability.

Product Features:
  • Designed to meet or exceed OE specifications for fit, form and function
  • 100% new unit with no core charges
  • Precision machined shafts result in high speed accuracy and help prevent bearing failures
  • Every distributor is tested to ensure reliable and long-lasting performance
  • O-rings or gaskets included where applicable
  • Precision Engineered ignition modules and plugs ensure proper performance plus precise connection.
  • Precision machined and ground shafts assure high speed accuracy and prevent bearing failures.
  • Original Equipment Equivalent high voltage ignition coils.
  • 100% New Components and fasteners eliminate premature failures.
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MSD Ignition – Distributor – Black, Ford 5.0L Mustang, 1986-1993, with Module (Part No.84563)

Distributor - Black, Ford 5.0L Mustang, 1986-1993, with Module

from

$562.99
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 Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine where it is transformed into a precision housing. Inside each housing there is a sealed ball bearing at the top of the shaft. This design is responsible for accurately guiding the oversize polished steel shaft throughout the entire rpm range of your engine. The shaft is also QPQ-coated for friction reduction and corrosion resistance. The Pro-Billet Distributors use a stock-style trigger pick-up to accept factory connectors. For installation, you simply remove the stock distributor and bolt the Pro-Billet MSD in place. Each model is supplied with a high-quality cap with brass terminals for full spark delivery, heavy-duty rotor and a special gear to work with factory camshafts.

Product Features:
  • Drop in billet replacement for late model Ford TFI 5.0L distributors
  • Supplied with a steel gear to work with the factory roller camshaft
  • Factory style ignition module accepts factory wiring
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
  • Shaft is QPQ coated and guided by a sealed ball bearing
  • Supplied with late model distributor cap and rotor
  • Legal to install in all 50 states
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Top Street Performance – Ford Small Block V8 (221-302) Pro Series Ready to Run Distributor with Red Cap (Part No.JM7702R)

Ford Small Block V8 (221-302) Pro Series Ready to Run Distributor with Red Cap

from

$261.99
TSP Pro Series Ready to Run Distributor is perfect for a street performance upgrade. It features a CNC-machined billet aluminum body and hardened steel shaft, with a sealed ball bearing on top and a sintered steel bushing on the bottom. It also comes with a fully adjustable mechanical advance, vacuum advance, magnetic pickup trigger, and a high-output circuit board module with digital tach output. The dielectric cap comes with solid brass terminals and a color-matched wire retainer.

Product Features:
  • Fits Ford small block (221-302) V8 engines
  • Internal module means no external ignition box required
  • Fully adjustable mechanical advance with additional springs and bushings included
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MSD Ignition – Distributor, Ford TFI, 351W, Steel Gear, Hydraulic Roller (Part No.8452)

Distributor, Ford TFI, 351W, Steel Gear, Hydraulic Roller

from

$599.99
The Pro-Billet Distributors use a stock-style trigger pick-up to accept factory connectors. For installation, you simply remove the stock distributor and bolt the Pro-Billet MSD in place. Each model is supplied with a high-quality cap with brass terminals for full spark delivery, heavy-duty rotor and a special gear to work with the factory camshafts.

Product Features:
  • Drop in billet replacement for late model Ford TFI 5.8L distributors
  • Supplied with a steel gear to work with the factory roller camshafts
  • Factory style ignition module accepts factory wiring
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
  • Shaft is QPQ coated and guided by a sealed ball bearing
  • Supplied with late model distributor cap and rotor
  • Legal to install in all 50 states
See More

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

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

from

$549.99
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 is 5/8″ smaller in diameter than stock Ford distributors
  • Must be used with an MSD Ignition Control
  • Supplied with small diameter cap with HEI style terminals and race rotor (will accept 8441 Cap-A-Dapt)
  • Nylon pads ensure smooth operation of the advance weights
  • Advance weight pins are staked and tig welded to the plate
  • Mechanical advance assembly can be locked out for crank trigger systems
  • Advance plate and weights are fine blanked from chrome moly steel and QPQ coated for friction reduction
  • Polished steel shaft is QPQ coated and guided by a sealed ball bearing
  • Maintenance-free magnetic pickup and precision reluctor create stable trigger signals throughout the rpm range
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
  • Easy-to-adjust mechanical advance with supplied springs and stop bushings
  • No CARB Exemption Order Number
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor, Marine, Ford 351-460, Ready-to-Run (Part No.83506)

Distributor, Marine, Ford 351-460, Ready-to-Run

from

$819.99
The Ready-to-Run  Distributors are a breeze to install. Simply drop it in the engine and connect three wires and you’re ready-to-run across the lake. Supplied with a cap, rotor, gear and Weathertight wiring harness.

Product Features:
  • Only three wires to connect for a simple installation
  • High output ignition module produces quick starts, smooth idle and improved mid range performance
  • Accurate and maintenance-free magnetic pick-up never needs adjustment
  • Easily adjust the mechanical advance with the supplied springs and stop bushings to fit your boat’s needs
  • No MSD Ignition control required
  • Equipped with flame arrestor holes machined into their billet aluminum housings
  • All units equipped with weather tight wiring harness
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PerTronix – D600711 Cap Male Red And Rotor 8 Cylinder Flame-Thrower Billet Distributor (Part No.D600711)

D600711 Cap Male Red And Rotor 8 Cylinder Flame-Thrower Billet Distributor

from

$69.99
Replacement distributor cap and rotor for Flame-Thrower billet and cast distributors. High dielectric strength cap with male or female brass terminals with premium rotor with brass contact.

Product Features:
  • PerTronix D600711 Cap Male Red and Rotor 8 cylinder Flame-Thrower Billet Distributor
  • Replacement distributor cap and rotor for Flame-Thrower billet and cast distributors
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Carquest Premium – Distributor Cap (Part No.CAC1061)

Distributor Cap

from

$29.99
The distributor cap & rotor are just two pieces of this type of ignition system which is typically driven by the engine’s camshaft. The distributor is the device that delivers the ignition spark to the spark plugs at a precise time, and spark timing is critical. Any wear or component out of place in this type of system will result in failure. Within the distributor and mounted to it are many individual pieces which allow the distributor and system to be maintained and repaired to keep it in top working order.

Product Features:
  • All products are constructed to meet all design and operating characteristics as intended by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • Cap terminal conductor wires formed with precision guided machines to ensure precise final location in the final housing assembly.
  • Terminal inserts manufactured to precise tolerances to ensure a guaranteed electrical connection between the cap conductor wires and spark plug wire terminals.
  • Distributor rotor blade coated with RFI coating to prevent electrical magnetic interference with the vehicles electrical system.
  • Distributor and rotor housings manufactured using the latest plastic technologies to guarantee di-electric strength and long life cycle.
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit, Ford V8 TFI, 1985-1995 (Part No.8482)

Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit, Ford V8 TFI, 1985-1995

from

$58.99
The cap and rotor of any ignition system must be considered mainte­nance items. To make things easy, we now offer these Cap and Rotor Replacement Kits

Product Features:
  • Rynite Injection Molded Caps And Retainers
  • Designed w/Performance In Mind
  • High Quality; Voltage Insulating Material
  • Stainless Terminals
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Motorcraft – Distributor Cap (Part No.DH-411B)

Distributor Cap

from

$32.99
The only parts recommended by Ford Motor Company for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.

Product Features:
  • Motorcraft and Ford Parts are used throughout Ford vehicles in a variety of applications that help ensure the proper build quality, integrity and long-lasting performance of every Ford car or truck.
  • Motorcraft and Ford Parts are manufactured from first-quality materials – chosen specifically for maximum performance and application suitability.
  • As with all Motorcraft and Ford Parts, any innovations or improvements developed since the vehicle’s manufacture are included in these after market replacement parts, ensuring the most current technology and performance.
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PerTronix – D4000 Flame-Thrower HEI Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit Black (Part No.D4000)

D4000 Flame-Thrower HEI Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit Black

from

$47.49
Made from hi-performance 60 KV rated alkyd molding compound for superior protection from “arc-thru” and cross-fire. Our cap and rotor kits include nylon rotor hold-down screws. Flame-Thrower dust covers provide a larger air gap around the coil which provides cooler operating temperatures.

Product Features:
  • Made from hi-performance 60 KV rated alkyd molding compound.
  • Cap and rotor kits include nylon rotor hold-down screws.
  • Flame-Thrower dust covers provide a larger air gap around the coil.
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Carquest Premium – Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit (Part No.CAC1796)

Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit

from

$14.99
The distributor cap & rotor are just two pieces of this type of ignition system which is typically driven by the engine’s camshaft. The distributor is the device that delivers the ignition spark to the spark plugs at a precise time, and spark timing is critical. Any wear or component out of place in this type of system will result in failure. Within the distributor and mounted to it are many individual pieces which allow the distributor and system to be maintained and repaired to keep it in top working order.

Product Features:
  • All products are constructed to meet all design and operating characteristics as intended by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • Cap terminal conductor wires formed with precision guided machines to ensure precise final location in the final housing assembly.
  • Terminal inserts manufactured to precise tolerances to ensure a guaranteed electrical connection between the cap conductor wires and spark plug wire terminals.
  • Distributor rotor blade coated with RFI coating to prevent electrical magnetic interference with the vehicles electrical system.
  • Distributor and rotor housings manufactured using the latest plastic technologies to guarantee di-electric strength and long life cycle.
See More

Carquest Premium – Distributor Cap Adapter (Part No.CAC1255)

Distributor Cap Adapter

from

$27.49
The distributor cap & rotor are just two pieces of this type of ignition system which is typically driven by the engine’s camshaft. The distributor is the device that delivers the ignition spark to the spark plugs at a precise time, and spark timing is critical. Any wear or component out of place in this type of system will result in failure. Within the distributor and mounted to it are many individual pieces which allow the distributor and system to be maintained and repaired to keep it in top working order.

Product Features:
  • All products are constructed to meet all design and operating characteristics as intended by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • Cap terminal conductor wires formed with precision guided machines to ensure precise final location in the final housing assembly.
  • Terminal inserts manufactured to precise tolerances to ensure a guaranteed electrical connection between the cap conductor wires and spark plug wire terminals.
  • Distributor rotor blade coated with RFI coating to prevent electrical magnetic interference with the vehicles electrical system.
  • Distributor and rotor housings manufactured using the latest plastic technologies to guarantee di-electric strength and long life cycle.
See More

Carquest Premium – Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit (Part No.CAC1867)

Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit

from

$23.99
The distributor cap & rotor are just two pieces of this type of ignition system which is typically driven by the engine’s camshaft. The distributor is the device that delivers the ignition spark to the spark plugs at a precise time, and spark timing is critical. Any wear or component out of place in this type of system will result in failure. Within the distributor and mounted to it are many individual pieces which allow the distributor and system to be maintained and repaired to keep it in top working order.

Product Features:
  • All products are constructed to meet all design and operating characteristics as intended by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • Cap terminal conductor wires formed with precision guided machines to ensure precise final location in the final housing assembly.
  • Terminal inserts manufactured to precise tolerances to ensure a guaranteed electrical connection between the cap conductor wires and spark plug wire terminals.
  • Distributor rotor blade coated with RFI coating to prevent electrical magnetic interference with the vehicles electrical system.
  • Distributor and rotor housings manufactured using the latest plastic technologies to guarantee di-electric strength and long life cycle.
See More

MSD Ignition – Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit, Ford Duraspark (Part No.8450)

Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit, Ford Duraspark

from

$62.99
The cap and rotor of any ignition system must be considered maintenance items. To make things easy, we now offer these Cap and Rotor Replacement Kits

Product Features:
  • Designed w/performance in mind
  • High quality material
  • Stainless Terminals
  • High dielectric properties
See More

Carquest – Distributor Rotor (Part No.23A1015)

Distributor Rotor

from

$5.59
The distributor cap & rotor are just two pieces of this type of ignition system which is typically driven by the engine¿s camshaft. The distributor is the device that delivers the ignition spark to the spark plugs at a precise time, and spark timing is critical. Any wear or component out of place in this type of system will result in failure. Within the distributor and mounted to it are many individual pieces which allow the distributor and system to be maintained and repaired to keep it in top working order.

Product Features:
  • All products are constructed to meet all design and operating characteristics as intended by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • Cap terminal conductor wires formed with precision guided machines to ensure precise final location in the final housing assembly.
  • Terminal inserts manufactured to precise tolerances to ensure a guaranteed electrical connection between the cap conductor wires and spark plug wire terminals.
  • Distributor rotor blade coated with RFI coating to prevent electrical magnetic interference with the vehicles electrical system.
  • Distributor and rotor housings manufactured using the latest plastic technologies to guarantee di-electric strength and long life cycle.
See More

Carquest – Distributor Rotor (Part No.D198)

Distributor Rotor

from

$9.99
BWD SELECT designs, specifies, and manufactures replacement parts with one goal in mind-make them the very best. To maximize performance and longevity, we use the finest materials and improve on OE specifications, whenever possible.

Product Features:
  • High-quality direct replacement electrical connector allows you to replace only the damaged connector instead of the entire harness for a cost-effective repair
  • The terminal is manufactured with high grade materials such as copper alloy, brass, and phosphor bronze.  The housing is fabricated using polyamide resins.  All of the materials together provide the connectors with prolonged life and superior performance.
  • All electrical connectors are 100% tested for proper mechanical and electrical fit, form and function
  • Offering thousands of high-quality pigtails & sockets for nearly every electrical job
See More

Carquest – Distributor Rotor (Part No.D166)

Distributor Rotor

from

$12.99
BWD SELECT designs, specifies, and manufactures replacement parts with one goal in mind-make them the very best. To maximize performance and longevity, we use the finest materials and improve on OE specifications, whenever possible.

Product Features:
  • High-quality direct replacement electrical connector allows you to replace only the damaged connector instead of the entire harness for a cost-effective repair
  • The terminal is manufactured with high grade materials such as copper alloy, brass, and phosphor bronze.  The housing is fabricated using polyamide resins.  All of the materials together provide the connectors with prolonged life and superior performance.
  • All electrical connectors are 100% tested for proper mechanical and electrical fit, form and function
  • Offering thousands of high-quality pigtails & sockets for nearly every electrical job
See More

Carquest – Distributor Rotor (Part No.23A1005)

Distributor Rotor

from

$7.99
The distributor cap & rotor are just two pieces of this type of ignition system which is typically driven by the engine¿s camshaft. The distributor is the device that delivers the ignition spark to the spark plugs at a precise time, and spark timing is critical. Any wear or component out of place in this type of system will result in failure. Within the distributor and mounted to it are many individual pieces which allow the distributor and system to be maintained and repaired to keep it in top working order.

Product Features:
  • All products are constructed to meet all design and operating characteristics as intended by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • Cap terminal conductor wires formed with precision guided machines to ensure precise final location in the final housing assembly.
  • Terminal inserts manufactured to precise tolerances to ensure a guaranteed electrical connection between the cap conductor wires and spark plug wire terminals.
  • Distributor rotor blade coated with RFI coating to prevent electrical magnetic interference with the vehicles electrical system.
  • Distributor and rotor housings manufactured using the latest plastic technologies to guarantee di-electric strength and long life cycle.
See More

Driveworks – Distributor Rotor (Part No.23067)

Distributor Rotor

from

$11.05
Driveworks offers a line of aftermarket parts and accessories that are commercially acceptable and competitively priced, which provides professional technicians and DIYers with an affordable alternative for repairs.

Product Features:
  • Direct-fit OE replacement ensures ease of installation
  • Designed to meet OE performance
  • As the leader in commercially acceptable parts, we provide professional technicians with the quality parts they need
  • As the leader in commercially acceptable parts, we provide professional technicians with the quality parts they need
See More

Carquest Premium – Distributor Rotor (Part No.DAC1022)

Distributor Rotor

from

$7.49
The distributor cap & rotor are just two pieces of this type of ignition system which is typically driven by the engine’s camshaft. The distributor is the device that delivers the ignition spark to the spark plugs at a precise time, and spark timing is critical. Any wear or component out of place in this type of system will result in failure. Within the distributor and mounted to it are many individual pieces which allow the distributor and system to be maintained and repaired to keep it in top working order.

Product Features:
  • All products are constructed to meet all design and operating characteristics as intended by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • Cap terminal conductor wires formed with precision guided machines to ensure precise final location in the final housing assembly.
  • Terminal inserts manufactured to precise tolerances to ensure a guaranteed electrical connection between the cap conductor wires and spark plug wire terminals.
  • Distributor rotor blade coated with RFI coating to prevent electrical magnetic interference with the vehicles electrical system.
  • Distributor and rotor housings manufactured using the latest plastic technologies to guarantee di-electric strength and long life cycle.
See More

Driveworks – Distributor Rotor (Part No.23050)

Distributor Rotor

from

$4.05
Driveworks offers a line of aftermarket parts and accessories that are commercially acceptable and competitively priced, which provides professional technicians and DIYers with an affordable alternative for repairs.

Product Features:
  • Direct-fit OE replacement ensures ease of installation
  • Designed to meet OE performance
  • As the leader in commercially acceptable parts, we provide professional technicians with the quality parts they need
  • As the leader in commercially acceptable parts, we provide professional technicians with the quality parts they need
See More

Carquest – Distributor Rotor (Part No.D214)

Distributor Rotor

from

$7.99
BWD SELECT designs, specifies, and manufactures replacement parts with one goal in mind-make them the very best. To maximize performance and longevity, we use the finest materials and improve on OE specifications, whenever possible.

Product Features:
  • High-quality direct replacement electrical connector allows you to replace only the damaged connector instead of the entire harness for a cost-effective repair
  • The terminal is manufactured with high grade materials such as copper alloy, brass, and phosphor bronze.  The housing is fabricated using polyamide resins.  All of the materials together provide the connectors with prolonged life and superior performance.
  • All electrical connectors are 100% tested for proper mechanical and electrical fit, form and function
  • Offering thousands of high-quality pigtails & sockets for nearly every electrical job
See More

Carquest Premium – Distributor Rotor (Part No.DAA1003)

Distributor Rotor

from

$12.99
The distributor cap & rotor are just two pieces of this type of ignition system which is typically driven by the engine’s camshaft. The distributor is the device that delivers the ignition spark to the spark plugs at a precise time, and spark timing is critical. Any wear or component out of place in this type of system will result in failure. Within the distributor and mounted to it are many individual pieces which allow the distributor and system to be maintained and repaired to keep it in top working order.

Product Features:
  • All products are constructed to meet all design and operating characteristics as intended by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • Cap terminal conductor wires formed with precision guided machines to ensure precise final location in the final housing assembly.
  • Terminal inserts manufactured to precise tolerances to ensure a guaranteed electrical connection between the cap conductor wires and spark plug wire terminals.
  • Distributor rotor blade coated with RFI coating to prevent electrical magnetic interference with the vehicles electrical system.
  • Distributor and rotor housings manufactured using the latest plastic technologies to guarantee di-electric strength and long life cycle.
See More

Most Popular Distributor Rotor Button for 1956 Ford Thunderbirds

Enhance your 1956 Ford Thunderbird with this popular Distributor Rotor Button we have in stock, for $26.99.

Carquest Premium – Distributor Rotor (Part No.DAA1009)

Distributor Rotor

from

$26.99
The distributor cap & rotor are just two pieces of this type of ignition system which is typically driven by the engine’s camshaft. The distributor is the device that delivers the ignition spark to the spark plugs at a precise time, and spark timing is critical. Any wear or component out of place in this type of system will result in failure. Within the distributor and mounted to it are many individual pieces which allow the distributor and system to be maintained and repaired to keep it in top working order.

Product Features:
  • All products are constructed to meet all design and operating characteristics as intended by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • Cap terminal conductor wires formed with precision guided machines to ensure precise final location in the final housing assembly.
  • Terminal inserts manufactured to precise tolerances to ensure a guaranteed electrical connection between the cap conductor wires and spark plug wire terminals.
  • Distributor rotor blade coated with RFI coating to prevent electrical magnetic interference with the vehicles electrical system.
  • Distributor and rotor housings manufactured using the latest plastic technologies to guarantee di-electric strength and long life cycle.
See More

Best-Selling 1956 Ford Thunderbird Distributor Modulator Sensor

Upgrade your Thunderbird with our best-selling Distributor Modulator Sensor.

PerTronix – 12823 Magnet Sleeve (only) for 1282 Ignitor Kit (Part No.12823)

12823 Magnet Sleeve (only) for 1282 Ignitor Kit

from

$57.99
For over thirty years, the Ignitor has proven itself in applications ranging from race cars to tractors. The Ignitor replaces breaker points and troublesome factory electronic ignitions.

Product Features:
  • PerTronix 12823 Magnet Sleeve (only) for 1282 Ignitor Kit
  • Replacement Parts (only) for Ignitor and Ignitor II Kits
See More

Top-Quality Distributors for 1956 Ford Thunderbirds

Choose a high-quality OEM or aftermarket Distributor for Ford Thunderbirds and enjoy top-notch performance from $767.99.

MSD Ignition – Distributor, Pro-Billet, Ford Y-Block (Part No.83831)

Distributor, Pro-Billet, Ford Y-Block

from

$767.99
Rather than ancient breaker points, this distributor uses a maintenance-free non-magnetic pickup to trigger the ignition control. Atop the distributor shaft is our proven centrifugal advance that allows you to alter the rate and amount of mechanical advance which is a very important tuning step with a Y-Block.

Product Features:
  • Vacuum advance canister for improved economy (can be locked out)
  • CNC machined billet aluminum housing and billet aluminum base
  • 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
  • Advance plate and weights are fine blanked from chrome moly steel and QPQ coated for friction reduction
  • Mechanical advance assembly 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
  • Requires an MSD Ignition Control
  • May hit firewall seam on ’57-’59 full size cars.
  • Requires an MSD ignition control
  • May hit firewall seam on 57-59 full size cars.
See More

Our Top Pick for a 1956 Ford Thunderbird Distributor Cap Kit

Invest in a durable Distributor Cap Kit for your 1956 Ford, knowing you’re getting trusted brands and expert craftsmanship.

Carquest Premium – Distributor Cap (Part No.CAC1087)

Distributor Cap

from

$28.49
The distributor cap & rotor are just two pieces of this type of ignition system which is typically driven by the engine’s camshaft. The distributor is the device that delivers the ignition spark to the spark plugs at a precise time, and spark timing is critical. Any wear or component out of place in this type of system will result in failure. Within the distributor and mounted to it are many individual pieces which allow the distributor and system to be maintained and repaired to keep it in top working order.

Product Features:
  • All products are constructed to meet all design and operating characteristics as intended by the vehicle manufacturer.
  • Cap terminal conductor wires formed with precision guided machines to ensure precise final location in the final housing assembly.
  • Terminal inserts manufactured to precise tolerances to ensure a guaranteed electrical connection between the cap conductor wires and spark plug wire terminals.
  • Distributor rotor blade coated with RFI coating to prevent electrical magnetic interference with the vehicles electrical system.
  • Distributor and rotor housings manufactured using the latest plastic technologies to guarantee di-electric strength and long life cycle.
See More

FAQs for 1956 Ford Thunderbird Distributors

What are the best-selling Distributors for 1956 Ford Thunderbirds?

Out of 4 Distributors that fit 1956 Ford Thunderbirds, the following parts are the top sellers:

What’s the price range for 1956 Ford Thunderbird Distributors?

The prices of Distributors for the 1956 Ford Thunderbird range from $26.99 up to $767.99 for the most premium parts.

What is the average price of a Distributor for a 1956 Ford Thunderbird?

The average price for Distributors for the 1956 Ford Thunderbird is $220.37. Keep in mind the variety of part types within our Distributor category, where you are likely to find a wide range of prices across a variety of parts and components.

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

Yes, we carry Distributors for 41 model years of Ford Thunderbirds between 1955 and 1997. The following model years are the most popular for Distributor purchases: 1997, 1996, 1995, 1994, 1993, 1992, 1991, 1990, and 1989.

What are the cheapest Distributors for my 1956 Ford Thunderbird?

The cheapest 1956 Ford Thunderbird Distributors we carry are:

Does Advance Auto Parts sell Distributors for any other 1956 Ford models?

Yes. We stock Distributors for 18 other popular 1956 Ford models. Some of the most popular are 1956 F-250 Distributors, 1956 F-350 Distributors, 1956 Country Squire Distributors, 1956 F-100 Distributors, and 1956 F-350 Pickup Distributors.

What types of Distributors do you sell for my 1956 Ford Thunderbird?

As of 6/2/26, these are some of the most in-demand types of Distributors for a 1956 Ford Thunderbird:

Can I get help with 1956 Ford Thunderbird Distributor orders?

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

What is your return policy for Ford Thunderbird Distributors?

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