Just finished fixing the ignition system on a nice '55 Ford, the previous work done was less than ... knowledgeable
This car did not run right, had poor engine power and simply not anywhere near correct.  I suspected the spark advance, tested the distributor 'pancake' first, many of these now are failing, those diaphragms leaking.  I test with a piece of hose, suck on it then seal the vacuum with the tongue, it must hold vacuum and if it doesn't ... get a new one.
Next was the very important vacuum spark control valve that screws into the back of the carb', examination of this one showed that somebody had put in a typical power valve ... just not a good idea, not going to work.  I replaced that with the real thing, these can be ordered new from Mike's Carb' Shop online, they have them in stock.
Now that '55 runs like a million, all it takes is a working vacuum advance system.
Warren.

To add to this a little .....  Your vacuum advance system HAS to work guys, the Y-block points' distributors do NOT have a centrifugal advance under the points plate, all advance of timing happens by the vacuum system and it has to work and work right with all parts good or .... your car will run like a piece of crap, no power ... not good.
My '54 had a bad 'pancake' diaphragm, was leaking vacuum and no good, at that time there were no new ones at Mac's or at the auto parts' store so I ordered one for a '50 Ford Vi8 from Mac's, then cut off the rod, turned it 90 degrees and welding it back together again, the hook on the rod upward thru' the points plate, then the little pin to keep it in place.   At this time you can get a new pancake online, eBay has several shown for our Y-block distributors.
Make sure your vacuum line is clear, then put in a new vacuum spark control VALVE from Mike's Carb' Shop online, he has them in stock, the correct part that will make your spark advance work like a million.
Keep'em betwext the ditches guys ...........
warren, in MN

That's not accurate.

'54, '55, and '56 do not have centrifugal advance and the vacuum system  must  work properly if you want to use the original distributor

'57 to '64 do have centrifugal advance and the vacuum advance with those is not critical and serves to boost economy.


Lawrenceville, GA