Just installed a new HEI distributor on my '56 Ford Crown Victoria's 312. Read that you are not required to use a gasket when you install the distributor. Dose this apply to new aluminum HEI's or only to the original Load-o-matic vacuum only distributor?

Y-Blocks do not require a gasket at the base of the distributor body.  Installing one can potentially raise the distributor gear enough at the cam gear that you don’t get the correct mesh.  A bit of oil or anti-seize on the distributor may alleviate any seizing that may take place later where the distributor fits within the block. 

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

Thanks Ted,
The new HEI dizzy came with a gasket so I installed it only to read that it might not be necessary . The old load-o-matic dizzy had no gasket when it was removed. And by putting in the HEI with mechanical and vacuum advance, what a world of difference in performance.

SO long as you didn't have a lot of "float" in the new dizzy and the gasket was a thin one you should be fine. I like HEI ignition.. Just make sure you have the correct coil and a full 12 volts getting to it. 



"Came too close to dying to stop living now!"

Got a Pertonic 40K coil and seems to be doing great. Before I read your post about the gasket, I removed it. It, the gasket was very very thin. Probably should have left well enough  alone

It sounds like you have already changed the carb from the one that's for the Loadmatic. If not Ted has a write up on how to make the older Holley compatable with newer distributors.

56 Vic, B'Ville 200 MPH Club Member, So Cal.

Yes that's ok but whats the ohms rating ??  for HEI its should be a low  .6 ohms coil




"Came too close to dying to stop living now!"

Most "HEI" distributors use an o-ring as a seal, similar to the later Motorcraft distributors.  That gives you extra insurance, but you should have no problem without a gasket, either way.



Lawrenceville, GA