Restoring Ignition Components on Vintage Gehl Skid Steers with Ford Kent Engines

[MikePhua]

The Gehl Skid Steer and Its Industrial Roots
Gehl Company, founded in 1859 in Wisconsin, began as an agricultural implement manufacturer and evolved into a respected name in compact construction equipment. By the 1970s and 1980s, Gehl was producing skid steer loaders that were widely used in farming, landscaping, and light construction. These machines were known for their mechanical simplicity and rugged design, often powered by small industrial engines like the Ford Kent 1.1L—a British-built inline-four originally developed for automotive use but later adapted for industrial applications.
The Ford Kent engine, particularly the VSG 411 variant, found its way into various machines including early New Holland L454 loaders, Bobcat 542B units, sweepers, manlifts, and generators. Its compact size and reliability made it a popular choice, but sourcing parts for these engines today can be challenging, especially when it comes to ignition components like the distributor.
Terminology Annotation
- Distributor: A rotating electrical component that routes high-voltage current from the ignition coil to the spark plugs in the correct firing order.
- Pencil Shaft Play: Excessive movement in the distributor shaft, often caused by worn bushings, leading to timing instability and misfires.
- Lucas 41920: A distributor model originally manufactured by Lucas, later produced under Delco branding for industrial applications.
- VSG 411: A Ford industrial engine variant based on the Kent block, used in stationary and mobile equipment.
Symptoms of Distributor Failure and Field Diagnosis
In aging Gehl skid steers equipped with the Ford 1.1L engine, a common issue is excessive shaft play in the distributor. This can result from worn bushings and plugged oil grooves, causing the distributor to run dry and degrade over time. When shaft play exceeds 0.030 inches, ignition timing becomes erratic, leading to hard starts, poor throttle response, and misfires.
Operators may attempt to locate replacement distributors using part numbers such as:

• Ford 86BF12100BA
  
• Delco Remy DRD6129
  
• Lucas 41920 (or aftermarket equivalents)
  

However, these parts are often discontinued or difficult to source. Online listings may show part numbers but lack actual inventory, frustrating restoration efforts.
A Story from the Workshop
In Michigan, a mechanic restoring his uncle’s Gehl skid steer encountered a distributor with severe shaft wear and no available replacements. After searching online and contacting suppliers, he found a new Mallory-brand Ford Kent distributor listed on an auction site for $50—far below the $200+ price seen at performance shops. He purchased it and adapted the mounting flange to fit the industrial engine. The machine started immediately and ran smoother than it had in years.
Repair Options and Machining Solutions
When replacement distributors are unavailable, rebuilding the original unit may be the best option. This involves:

• Disassembling the distributor and inspecting shaft and bushings
  
• Cleaning oil grooves and lubricating moving parts
  
• Machining new bushings to restore proper clearance
  
• Reassembling with fresh points, condenser, and cap
  
• Testing advance mechanism and rotor alignment
  

Local machinists can often fabricate bushings using bronze or oil-impregnated materials. This approach preserves the original distributor housing and ensures compatibility with the engine’s timing gear.
Recommendations for Ignition Restoration
To restore ignition reliability:

• Measure shaft play with a dial indicator before disassembly
  
• Use high-quality points and condensers rated for industrial duty
  
• Replace spark plug wires and coil if age-related degradation is suspected
  
• Verify timing using a strobe light after installation
  
• Apply dielectric grease to terminals to prevent corrosion
  
• Keep a spare cap and rotor on hand for field service
  

If adapting automotive distributors, ensure that the advance curve matches the industrial engine’s RPM range. Performance distributors may require modification to avoid over-advancing under load.
Preserving Legacy Equipment Through Resourcefulness
Vintage skid steers like the Gehl models with Ford Kent engines represent a bygone era of mechanical clarity. Their continued operation depends on the ingenuity of owners and technicians willing to rebuild, adapt, and source parts creatively. While manufacturers may no longer support these machines, the aftermarket and machinist community offer pathways to restoration.
As of 2025, interest in legacy equipment has grown among collectors and small-scale operators. Forums, auction sites, and specialty shops remain valuable resources for locating rare components and sharing repair strategies.
Conclusion
Distributor failure in older Gehl skid steers powered by Ford Kent engines is a solvable challenge with the right approach. Whether through part adaptation, custom machining, or careful sourcing, ignition restoration can breathe new life into these compact workhorses. For those committed to preserving mechanical heritage, every successful repair is a testament to skill, patience, and the enduring value of well-built machines.