Expert: jack bahm - 1/9/2010

Question
Jack, I have a 1931 model A, I purchased the car and it ran well. It was recommended that I rebuild the distributor (we changed the shaft from a one piece to a two piece) and rebuilt the distributor: now the car will not get above 2200 RPM. Points are set at 20 I have timed the car and it seems to be in time but firing a little late and only about 1/2 the power. any suggestions

Answer
Sounds like the car does not like the points you put in.  20 is a little big for the gap.  A lot of cars like something a little less.
If you think it is firing late, then I bet it is.
With the spark lever up, the key on, and the engine at TDC, connect the test light to the movable point arm.  The light should be off.  Then pull the lever down two notches.  The light should come on.  It it does, then it is timing perfect.
No backfiring, so the condenser is OK and points are not fouled.
That's about all I can suggest for now.  Make sure the piston is all the way up at TDC when you time it.  That dimple in the timing gear is not always the best indicator.
Get back to me if you are still having trouble.
jack