1981 Ford Mustang Distributors
Keep Your 1981 Ford Mustang in Top Shape with Quality Distributors
Whether you’re repairing or upgrading your Distributor, using high-quality parts is key to keeping your 1981 Ford Mustang looking sharp and performing at its best. At Advance Auto Parts we carry a wide selection of dependable options, including Distributor Gears, Distributor Cap Kits, and Distributor Rotor Buttons. 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.
Top-Rated Distributors from Trusted Brands
Looking for a reliable Distributor? We’ve got you covered with options from brands you know and trust like MSD Ignition. For example, MSD Ignition Distributors start at just $70.09 with an average 4.3 star rating. With over 10 reviews and a solid 4.3 star average, you can shop with confidence knowing other Ford Mustang owners approve.
Competitive Prices and Extensive Inventory
The average price for a 1981 Ford Mustang Distributor at Advance Auto Parts is around $255.11, with a range that starts at $5.35 and goes up to $1,200.00. With 39 options in stock from 3 trusted brands, finding the right fit is easy. Popular picks like Carquest Distributor Cap, CAC1054, Carquest Distributor Cap, 24C1005, and Carquest Distributor Rotor, D219 start at just $5.55 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 1981 Ford Mustang in peak condition, inside and out.
Find Your Specific 1981 Ford Mustang Distributors
Looking for the perfect Distributor for your 1981 Ford Mustang? You’re in the right place. Below, you’ll find links to various types of Distributors that fit your vehicle. At Advance Auto Parts, we offer only the highest quality OEM and aftermarket Distributors, ensuring durability and a precise fit for your Ford Mustang. Whether you’re driving a 1981 model or another popular model year like
1987,
1988,
1989,
1990,
1991,
1992,
1993,
1994, and
1995, we’ve got you covered. Purchasing Distributors from Advance Auto Parts is a smart choice, giving you access to trusted brands and parts built to perform. Below, you’ll find links to various types of Distributors that fit your vehicle.
Essential 1981 Ford Mustang Distributors
Mallory – Mallory Distributor Drive Gear, 29421PD (Part No.29421PD)
from
$85.19
Mallory distributor gears are precision machined from alloy steel in our factory to exact original equipment specs. For use with cast flat tappet hydraulic/mechanical cams and austempered ductile iron roller cams.
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Mallory – Mallory Distributor Drive Gear, 29420 (Part No.29420)
from
$85.19
Mallory Distributor Gears are precision machined from alloy steel in our factory to exacting original equipment specifications. Special attention is given to the heat treating requirements of each gear to assure the proper hardness, giving trouble free service when used with proferal billet (hydraulic and mechanical flat tappet) and selectively austempered ductile iron billet (hydraulic roller tappet) camshafts. Available for Mallory, original equipment, and other distributors.
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Mallory – Mallory Distributor Drive Gear, 29418PD (Part No.29418PD)
from
$85.19
Mallory distributor gears are precision machined from alloy steel in our factory to exact original equipment specs. For use with cast flat tappet hydraulic/mechanical cams and austempered ductile iron roller cams.
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Dorman – Help – Dorman – Help Distributor Gears, 90455 (Part No.90455)
from
$19.49
This distributor drive gear is designed to match the fit, function and appearance of the original part on specified vehicles, and is engineered for durability and reliable performance.
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Top Street Performance – Top Street Performance Ford 351W V8 Pro Series Pro Billet Distributor – Red, JM7610R (Part No.JM7610R)
from
$231.99
TSP Pro Series Pro Billet Distributor is for the racer who needs added spark and precision for their high performance power plant. It features a high quality, fully adjustable mechanical advance and an accurate magnetic pickup trigger. The CNC-machined aluminum body and hardened steel shaft, guided by a sealed ball bearing on top and a sintered steel bushing on the bottom, ensure stability up to 10,000 RPM. The dielectric cap features bolt-down and twist-lock capabilities. It has solid brass terminals and comes with a color-matched wire retainer.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Distributor, Ford TFI, 351W, Steel Gear, Hydraulic Roller, 8452 (Part No.8452)
from
$623.99
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor T2815: 100% New, With Cap and Rotor (Part No.T2815)
from
$104.99
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor T2892A: 100% New, With Cap and Rotor (Part No.T2892A)
from
$111.99
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit, CAC1867 (Part No.CAC1867)
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.
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Carquest – Carquest Distributor Cap, 24C1006 (Part No.24C1006)
from
$13.49
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.
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PerTronix – PerTronix D650700 Cap Black 8 Cylinder Flame-Thrower Billet Distributor (Part No.D650700)
from
$47.49
Parts and accessories for Flame-Thrower Billet Distributors offer unmatched quality and accommodate the performance levels your distributor was engineered for.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Cap And Rotor Kit, Distributor Style, Compatible With Pn 8408 / Pn 8423, 84085 (Part No.84085)
from
$70.09
The cap and rotor of any ignition system must be considered maintenance items. Just as you change the oil and filter of your car, you should always replace the cap and rotor as a set. To make things easy, we now offer these Cap and Rotor Replacement Kits.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Cap, CAC1182 (Part No.CAC1182)
from
$16.99
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Alternator Brush Holder, XAC1059 (Part No.XAC1059)
from
$8.79
The charging system has been required as long as we have had a need for an electrical system and from research it’s been since the requirement of horns in motor vehicle in the early 1900’s. An alternator is a voltage generator that uses mechanical energy to rotate a set of magnets within a field of windings called a stator. The alternating current (AC) voltage created by the spinning magnetic field is converted into a usable direct current (DC) voltage with a rectifier and then regulated by a voltage regulator so that the voltage level in the electrical system stays within a specific operating range. The alternator provides all the voltage needed to operate a vehicle, the battery is only used as a reserve for heavier load conditions, as a voltage source for the engine starting system, and to supply a small amount of voltage to the electromagnets in the alternator which boosts the magnetic field in the alternator and increases voltage output.
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Carquest – Carquest Distributor Rotor, D219 (Part No.D219)
from
$12.05
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.
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Driveworks – Driveworks Distributor Rotor, 23075 (Part No.23075)
from
$6.05
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.
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Motorcraft – Motorcraft Distributor Rotor, Original Equipment (O.E.), DR-374B (Part No.DR-374B)
from
$39.99
The only parts recommended by Ford Motor Company for Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Rotor, DAA1009 (Part No.DAA1009)
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.
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Carquest – Carquest Distributor Rotor, 23A1023 (Part No.23A1023)
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.
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Carquest – Carquest Distributor Rotor, 23A1004 (Part No.23A1004)
from
$8.79
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Rotor, DAC1021 (Part No.DAC1021)
from
$25.99
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Check Valve, ECA1336 (Part No.ECA1336)
from
$35.99
The distributor is just one piece 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.
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Popular 1981 Ford Mustang Distributors Categories
Most Popular Distributor Gear for 1981 Ford Mustangs
Enhance your 1981 Ford Mustang with this popular Distributor Gear we have in stock, for $71.99.
Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Drive Gear, DGA1014 (Part No.DGA1014)
from
$71.99
The distributor is just one piece 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.
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Best-Selling 1981 Ford Mustang Distributor Cap Kits
Upgrade your Mustang with one of our 12 best-selling Distributor Cap Kits, earning an average 5 stars rating across 1 reviews.
MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Cap And Rotor Kit, Distributor Style, Compatible With Pn 8408 / Pn 8423, 84085 (Part No.84085)
from
$70.09
The cap and rotor of any ignition system must be considered maintenance items. Just as you change the oil and filter of your car, you should always replace the cap and rotor as a set. To make things easy, we now offer these Cap and Rotor Replacement Kits.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Cap, CAC1054 (Part No.CAC1054)
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.
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Carquest – Carquest Distributor Cap, 24C1005 (Part No.24C1005)
from
$17.99
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Cap, CAC1071 (Part No.CAC1071)
from
$31.99
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Cap, CAC1061 (Part No.CAC1061)
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.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit, Ford Duraspark, 8450 (Part No.8450)
from
$65.79
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
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Cap Adapter, CAC1201 (Part No.CAC1201)
from
$24.99
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Cap Adapter, CAC1078 (Part No.CAC1078)
from
$18.99
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit, CAC1814 (Part No.CAC1814)
from
$18.99
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit, CAC1796 (Part No.CAC1796)
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Cap and Rotor Kit, CAC1847 (Part No.CAC1847)
from
$13.99
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Cap Adapter, CAE1104 (Part No.CAE1104)
from
$11.99
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.
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Top-Quality Distributor Rotor Buttons for 1981 Ford Mustangs
Choose a high-quality OEM or aftermarket Distributor Rotor Button for Ford Mustangs and enjoy top-notch performance from $6.39.
Carquest – Carquest Distributor Rotor, D166 (Part No.D166)
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.
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Carquest – Carquest Distributor Rotor, D219 (Part No.D219)
from
$12.05
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Rotor, DAA1003 (Part No.DAA1003)
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Rotor, DAC1021 (Part No.DAC1021)
from
$25.99
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.
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Carquest – Carquest Distributor Rotor, 23A1017 (Part No.23A1017)
from
$6.39
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor Rotor, DAA1094 (Part No.DAA1094)
from
$13.99
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.
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Carquest – Carquest Distributor Rotor, D164 (Part No.D164)
from
$26.99
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.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Rotor Assembly – Chevy V8 Cap-A-Dapt, 8421 (Part No.8421)
from
$70.19
The MSD 8421 Adjustable Cap-A-Dapt Distributor Rotor is a premium, precision-engineered performance upgrade designed by MSD Performance to solve rotor phasing problems and deliver perfect ignition synchronization under heavy racing or electronic engine management modifications.
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Top Picks for 1981 Ford Mustang Distributors
Invest in one of our 16 durable Distributors for your 1981 Ford, knowing you’re getting trusted brands and expert craftsmanship.
Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor T2899A: 100% New, With Cap and Rotor (Part No.T2899A)
from
$103.99
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.
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Carquest Premium – Carquest Distributor T2831B: 100% New, With Cap and Rotor (Part No.T2831B)
from
$82.99
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.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Distributor, Ford 289/302, E-Curve, Steel Gear, 85031 (Part No.85031)
from
$1200.00
MSD now offers Ford distributors with steel gears for use with hydraulic roller cams.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Black Distributor, Ford 289/302, Ready-To-Run, Steel Gear, 835231 (Part No.835231)
from
$1120.00
In the world of modern engine design, it’s hard to beat a hydraulic roller camshaft for all-around performance. It’s crucial to match the distributor gear with the cam material to prevent premature failure of the cam or distributor gear which can lead to engine damage.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Ford 289 – 302 Crab Cap Distributor, 85824 (Part No.85824)
from
$1013.00
Ford owners with distributor clearance issues due to blowers, air cleaners, or any other parts interference will love MSD’s low profile, crab cap style distributor. The use of a crab cap allows the spark plug wires to exit the side of the distributor cap significantly lowering the overall height.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Ford 289/302 Street Pro-Billet With Steel Gear, 84791 (Part No.84791)
from
$879.99
The Street Pro-Billet Distributors are the perfect choice for powerful engines that see plenty of street time. This canister provides improved economy and an accurate mechanical advance lets you dial-in an advance curve to match your driving needs. A magnetic pick-up produces accurate trigger signals that remain stable throughout the entire rpm range of your engine and is completely maintenance-free.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Distributor, Ford 289/302, Ready-To-Run, Black Cap, Steel Gear, 835251 (Part No.835251)
from
$859.99
In the world of modern engine design, it’s hard to beat a hydraulic roller camshaft for all-around performance. It’s crucial to match the distributor gear with the cam material to prevent premature failure of the cam or distributor gear which can lead to engine damage.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Distributor – Black, Ford 289/302, Ready-to-Run, 83523 (Part No.83523)
from
$849.99
The Pro-Billet Ready-to-Run distributor is the perfect upgrade for outdated points distributors or bulky HEIs. Simply install the distributor in the engine, connect three wires to the coil and fire it up. A maintenance-free magnetic pick-up accurately triggers the module. The increased output of the amplifier easily outperforms stock ignitions and will smooth out the engines idle, improve starting and provide a much higher rpm range. The Ready-to-Run features MSD’s adjustable mechanical advance which allows you to custom tailor an ignition curve to match your engine’s needs. There is also a vacuum advance canister to help improve economy. For positive street performance, the Ready-to-Run is the best choice. Includes a separate tach circuit that is ideal to trigger a tach or an aftermarket EFI such as an Atomic EFI system.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Distributor, Ford 289 / 302, Ready-To-Run, Black Cap, 83525 (Part No.83525)
from
$779.99
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. For protection, there is also an easy-to-set rev limiter.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Black Distributor Ford 289-302, Pro Billet, Small Cap, Steel Gear, 857931 (Part No.857931)
from
$764.99
Ford distributors present a challenge when changing the distributor gear due to their pressed fit, the need to cross drill the distributor shaft and set the gear to a specific height.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Distributor Ford 289-302, Pro Billet, Small Black Cap, Steel Gear, 857951 (Part No.857951)
from
$745.99
Ford distributors present a challenge when changing the distributor gear due to their pressed fit, the need to cross drill the distributor shaft and set the gear to a specific height.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Distributor, Ford 2.3L, 8473 (Part No.8473)
MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Distributor – Black, Ford 302, Pro Billet, Small Cap, 85793 (Part No.85793)
from
$584.99
“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.”
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Distributor, Ford 289 / 302, Vacuum Advance, 8479 (Part No.8479)
from
$584.99
“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″” 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.”
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Distributor, Ford 302, Pro-Billet, Small Black Cap, 85795 (Part No.85795)
from
$584.99
The MSD 85795 Ford 289-302 Small Diameter Pro-Billet Distributor is a top-tier, precision-engineered ignition component crafted by MSD Performance to deliver maximum spark accuracy and solve tight engine bay clearance issues in Small Block Ford V8 engines.
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MSD Ignition – MSD Ignition Distributor, Crank Trigger, Ford 289 / 302, Black, 83795 (Part No.83795)
from
$478.99
These distributors have a low-profile cap assembly to clear busy intake set-ups and are topped with MSD’s new Rynite-molded Ford-style cap and wire retainer. The low design is accomplished because the only thing under the cap is a rotor. These distributors don’t have an advance assembly or pick-up so they must be used with a Crank Trigger. Since these distributors are designed for racing applications, a ball bearing is pressed into the housing to guide the polished steel shaft. Each distributor is supplied with a bronze gear.
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Our Distributor Brush for 1981 Ford Mustangs
Make a smart move for your 1981 Ford Mustang with our Distributor Brush for $8.79.
Carquest Premium – Carquest Alternator Brush Holder, XAC1059 (Part No.XAC1059)
from
$8.79
The charging system has been required as long as we have had a need for an electrical system and from research it’s been since the requirement of horns in motor vehicle in the early 1900’s. An alternator is a voltage generator that uses mechanical energy to rotate a set of magnets within a field of windings called a stator. The alternating current (AC) voltage created by the spinning magnetic field is converted into a usable direct current (DC) voltage with a rectifier and then regulated by a voltage regulator so that the voltage level in the electrical system stays within a specific operating range. The alternator provides all the voltage needed to operate a vehicle, the battery is only used as a reserve for heavier load conditions, as a voltage source for the engine starting system, and to supply a small amount of voltage to the electromagnets in the alternator which boosts the magnetic field in the alternator and increases voltage output.
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Top-Rated Distributor Brands For Your 1981 Ford Mustang
When it comes to finding the perfect Distributor for your 1981 Ford Mustang, Advance Auto Parts has you covered with a wide selection of high-quality OEM and aftermarket options from 3 trusted brands. We carry the most popular Distributor brands including MSD Ignition, and more, all known for their exceptional customer ratings (average brand rating of 4.3 stars) and competitive prices, as low as $70.09. Purchasing a Distributor from us here at Advance Auto Parts is a smart move for both you and your 1981 Ford Mustang, providing peace of mind with parts that meet or exceed OEM standards.
Popular MSD Ignition 1981 Ford Mustang Distributors
If you’re looking for a top-quality Distributor for your 1981 Ford Mustang, Advance Auto Parts has exactly what you need with our selection of MSD Ignition Distributors. We have 1 MSD Ignition Distributors in stock for this fitment, all known for their durability and precision fit. With prices starting at just $70.09, you’ll find the perfect Distributor for your needs and budget. MSD Ignition Distributors for the 1981 Ford Mustang come highly rated, with over 1 customer reviews and an impressive average rating of 4.3 stars. Choosing a MSD Ignition Distributor from Advance Auto Parts is a smart move to ensure quality and value for your vehicle.
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$70.09
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MSD Ignition Cap And Rotor Kit, Distributor Style, Compatible With Pn 8408 / Pn 8423, 84085
“Works well, gave my motor new life”
FAQs for 1981 Ford Mustang Distributors
What are the best-selling Distributors for 1981 Ford Mustangs?
Out of 39 Distributors that fit 1981 Ford Mustangs, the following parts are the top sellers:
- Carquest Distributor Cap, CAC1054 (12449121) – $29.99
- Carquest Distributor Cap, 24C1005 (12478033) – $17.99
- Carquest Distributor Rotor, D219 (18200126) – $12.05
What’s the price range for 1981 Ford Mustang Distributors?
The prices of Distributors for the 1981 Ford Mustang range from $5.35 up to $1,200.00 for the most premium parts.
What is the average price of a Distributor for a 1981 Ford Mustang?
The average price for Distributors for the 1981 Ford Mustang is $255.11. 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 Mustang model years?
What are the cheapest Distributors for my 1981 Ford Mustang?
The cheapest 1981 Ford Mustang Distributors we carry are:
- Carquest Distributor Rotor, 23A1017 (12476948) – $6.39
- Carquest Alternator Brush Holder, XAC1059 (12522176) – $8.79
- Carquest Distributor Cap Adapter, CAE1104 (12522006) – $11.99
- Carquest Distributor Rotor, D219 (18200126) – $12.05
- Carquest Distributor Rotor, D166 (18200127) – $12.99
Does Advance Auto Parts sell Distributors for any other 1981 Ford models?
Yes. We stock Distributors for 27 other popular 1981 Ford models. Some of the most popular are 1981 E-250 Econoline Distributors, 1981 E-350 Econoline Distributors, 1981 E-150 Econoline Distributors, 1981 Thunderbird Distributors, and 1981 Bronco Distributors.
What are the top-rated Distributors that fit the 1981 Ford Mustang?
Based on 10 reviews by customers, our 1981 Ford Mustang Distributors have an average customer rating of 4.3 stars. These are the highest-rated categories of Distributors for the 1981 Ford Mustang and their top-rated products:
- Distributor Cap Kits
- Distributor Rotor Buttons
- Carquest Distributor Rotor, D166 (18200127) – $12.99
What types of Distributors do you sell for my 1981 Ford Mustang?
As of 8/2/26, these are some of the most in-demand types of Distributors for a 1981 Ford Mustang:
Can I get help with 1981 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang Distributors?
Advance Auto Parts keeps returns simple. For new Ford Mustang Distributors and accessories, your online orders can be returned, in their original condition, within 45 days. For requirements, see the returns page.