Bruce,

Where in the 1954 Chevrolet Truck Shop Manual did you find different models of distributors? I do not doubt you, because the Master Parts Book does show different part numbers for 1954 235 and 261 distributors.

As Wrenchbender Ret. posted, the 1954 Chevrolet Truck Shop Manual shows different timing settings for 235 and 261 engines.

Perhaps it should also be noted that the Truck Data Book shows no difference in the 235/261 flywheel. That begs the question "what timing mark do you use on the 1954 flywheel" for the 235's 2 degrees after TDC and the 261's 5 degrees after TDC?

Tim
1954Advance-Design.com
1954 3106 Carryall Suburban
1954 3104 5-window pickup w/Hydra-Matic
The 216 and early 235 engines are not "splash oilers" -- this is a splash oiler.