Strange Delco Distributor Weights (shape)

[Wayne M.]

Here's a rare 1969 L88 distributor 1111927 that sold recently on eBay (pic 1). Notice the rare ..373 dummy vac advance, 8_L_29 dated band. The centrifugal advance weights are the same weird shape as on my early '66 passenger big block distr. (pic 2) which I'd automatically assumed were aftermarket. They look like a duck-billed platypus. And on pic #2, it appears they are up to no good .

But checking the 1969 P&A30, I see that both distr's (as well as many other GM vehicles) used this weight, part # 1965843. Any reason ?

[Joe L.]

Re: Strange Delco Distributor Weights (shape)

Here's a rare 1969 L88 distributor 1111927 that sold recently on eBay (pic 1). Notice the rare ..373 dummy vac advance, 8_L_29 dated band. The centrifugal advance weights are the same wierd shape as on my early '66 passenger big block distr. (pic 2) which I'd automatically assumed were aftermarket. They look like a duck-billed platypus. And on pic #2, it appears they are up to no good .

But checking the 1969 P&A30, I see that both distr's (as well as many other GM vehicles) used this weight, part # 1965843. Any reason ?

Wayne-----

Yes, they are GM #1965843. I've got several [not for sale]. They were used for quite a few other applications. Why was this configuration used? I always assumed that this is "what it took" to achieve the specific centrifugal advance curve required for particular distributor part numbers.

[William C.]

Re: Strange Delco Distributor Weights (shape)

I'm with Joe, original equipment in some applications. I never studied why, but have seen a few on distributors I worked on over the years.

[Gene M.]

Re: Strange Delco Distributor Weights (shape)

My 68 has those odd looking weights. They have been in there since I got it in 1971. The advance curve appears to be "fast" with them. I have never put this distributor on my Sun machine to check it out. Maybe someone else has. I do have light weight springs installed and have been there for years.

[David L.]

Re: Strange Delco Distributor Weights (shape)

I agree with Joe.
My 1970 Camaro SS350 w/MT trans. 1111996 distributors and my 1966 Chevelle 327 w/PG trans. 1111152 distributor have these same weights, GM # 1965843, as shown in my vintage Chev. parts catalogs as well as my Delco Remy Service Parts Catalog.

Dave