I have a 1962 292 y block out of a truck.and i picked up a distributor from a 55 ford.it hits the head.the guy i bought it from said it would work.it fit in The block when the heads were off..but now hits the head.
Thanks ron.

You don't want to use a 1955 distributor in your engine.  The 55 distributor is a Load-A Matic.  It has a larger diameter vacuum advance diaphragm which may be causing your problem.   The 1955 advance mechanism is inferior and you need the correct 1955 carb to make it work. You need a distributor from a 1957 or newer YBlock in your engine. 

Agreed that you want/need a '57 and up distributor for your engine, BUT, a '55 distributor should fit if it has the hex oil pump drive. I can't imagine it hitting the head if you are installing it with the vacuum canister in the 12 or 1 o'clock position. A picture of the problem area always helps.

It will fit but You need to take it out and reset to #1 with Engine at TDC. However its not the Distributor to use as mentioned.  The Rebuilt Units shown on Ebay should be avoided. They are not correctly made as discussed in previous Posts.
They are all made by Cardone-even the Ones sold at your local Parts Store. Cardone # 30-2808 for reference. You need to locate if possible an original 1957-1964  Distributor. I lucked out and found One on Ebay a couple of Months ago. Original 1957 which had been reconditioned and works like a Charm.The Ones Cardone is making now are 1/2 inch too Short because they are trying to use Shafts from a Ford Small Block. Due to a shortage of correct Cores. If You find an original they can be reconditioned. 

  

Input it back in.and it fits.with the vacum pointi g at 5 cyl.

Like others have said, pictures will help.
#5 is at the front of the engine on the oil filter or fuel pump side.  1-4, front to back on starter side.  5-8 front to back on oil filter side.  It will point to #8 or maybe #7 when installed correctly.

Also as others have said, you do not want a '55 distributor, so using it is a lost cause.  It will only work with the matching carburetor.


Lawrenceville, GA

Yes oil filter side .pointing to 7-8

That's where it should be. Gives enough space to adjust Timing. 

  

Ok well thats good.i found a 1960 distributor on e bay.said its for a truck block.needs to be rebuilt.so we will see.thanks again for the info.
Ron.