MSD 83541 distributor for the 1977-1996 Ford F-150 V8 5.8L and other vehicles is a ready-to-run MSD Ignition distributor with a built-in ignition module. It is an upgrade over DuraSpark or breaker-point setups, and the module is meant to give quick starts and a smooth idle.
- Built-in module produces a 7.5 amp single spark through high rpm
- Maintenance-free magnetic pickup and precision reluctor create stable trigger signals across the rpm range
- CNC machined billet aluminum housing and base for induction setups and tight engine compartments
- Polished steel shaft is QPQ coated and guided by a sealed ball bearing
- Mechanical advance uses supplied springs and stop bushings, and can be locked out for crank trigger systems
- Built-in rev limiter and a vacuum advance canister that can be locked out
Quick facts
- Part: MSD 83541 distributor
- Fits: the 1977-1996 Ford F-150 V8 5.8L and other vehicles
- Material: billet aluminum housing, steel gear
- Condition: New
Hard starting, a rough idle or a misfire can be signs of a worn distributor. Those signs alone do not prove the distributor is at fault, since a tired set of spark plug wires can also make an engine misfire.
Fits
The vehicles it fits include the 1977-1996 Ford F-250 V8 5.8L and the 1969-1970 Ford Mustang V8 5.8L, along with many other Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models. If your car is not named here, look up its year and model in the "Vehicles it fits" section on this page.
Specifications
Fit and size
- Engine: Ford 351W
- Quantity per vehicle: 1
- Housing diameter: 5/8 inch smaller than stock Ford distributors
- Cap: small diameter with HEI-style terminals; accepts 8441 Cap-A-Dapt
Build and materials
- Type: ready-to-run with built-in ignition module
- Housing: CNC machined billet aluminum
- Gear: steel, Melonized QPQ coated
- Shaft: polished steel, QPQ coated, sealed ball bearing
- Emissions: CARB E.O. approved
- Condition: New
- Warranty: MSD manufacturer's limited 1-year warranty
- Country of origin: United States
In the box
One ready-to-run distributor with a small diameter cap with HEI-style terminals and a race rotor, plus advance springs and stop bushings. This listing is one distributor, and each vehicle takes one.
Installation notes
- Drop it into the engine and connect three wires.
- Does not require an MSD Ignition Control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Mustang distributor right for the 1969-1970 Ford Mustang V8 5.8L?
Yes. MSD 83541 fits the 1969-1970 Ford Mustang V8 5.8L. The "Vehicles it fits" section on the product page covers other years and models.
Is this the right distributor for a 1977-1996 Ford F-250 V8 5.8L?
Yes. MSD 83541 fits the 1977-1996 Ford F-250 V8 5.8L, and each truck takes one distributor.
Do I need a separate ignition control with MSD 83541?
No. MSD 83541 has a built-in ignition module that produces a 7.5 amp single spark through high rpm, and it does not require an MSD Ignition Control.
Does this ready-to-run distributor come with a cap and rotor?
Yes. It is supplied with a small diameter cap with HEI-style terminals and a race rotor, plus advance springs and stop bushings for tuning the curve.
Can the mechanical advance be locked out on this distributor?
Yes. The mechanical advance assembly can be locked out for crank trigger systems, and the vacuum advance canister can be locked out as well.
