Hi all can anyone tell me what distributor is fitted to the 1935 Ruby. The metal strap that runs between the low tension terminal,condenser and points is damaged and I require another. I have not seen any listed with our cherished suppliers and think that I will have to purchase a scrap distributor and canibalise it for one. More than likely on Sunday at Autocarna.

John Mason

Location: Nottinghamshire

The source book says that it should be a Lucas DK4 distributor fitted to a 1935 Ruby.
The distributor should have a small aluminium tag screwed to the side that should state what the distributor is, check what's fitted first.
I recently bought a couple of these connecting straps from Martin Jay the distributor doctor which was the cheapest option for me. Give him a call on 01984 629 540 His website is :- www.distributordoctor.com/

Location: Cambridgeshire

The handbook also says "DK4 distributor with auto advance" BUT, John's description of the metal strap doesn't tally with a DK4; it does, however, tally with the earlier DJ4 manual advance distributor.
Were it a DK4, it would have a replacable bakelite baseplate which has the condenser and points mounted on it.

Take a look at the 2 types of points (part No.s BG140p and BG294p ) illustrated HERE to determine which you have.

Ian Mc.

Location: Shropshire

Both the DJ4 and DK4 have a metal strap from the points to condenser to take off for the coil as per photo's.

Location: Cambridgeshire

I take your point, Paul, albeit a very different metal strap.Its a few years since I had a car with a DK4 and I had forgotten about that connection.

Your photos will enable John to determine which he has without any doubt.

Having seen early cars with DK4s on the current engine and later cars with DJ4s I would never assume that what is there is that which should be there!!

Ian Mc.

Location: Shropshire

Yes, I quite agree Ian as our 1930 van came over from New Zealand with an auto advance DK4 linked up to the manual advance lever on the steering wheel. I initially locked the bob weights until I sourced an earlier distributor.

Location: Cambridgeshire

Thank you both definitely a DK4 type from the photos. I will try the ignition doctor for a replacement.

John Mason

Location: Nottinghamshire

John, if the damaged strap in your distributor is stopping you from using your car at the weekend then let me know as we are coming up to the Autokarna tomorrow afternoon and camping overnight for the Sunday and your more than welcome to have my spare and replace it later.

Location: Cambridgeshire

Location: Nottinghamshire

I'll bring it with me just in case.

Location: Cambridgeshire