Easy lifehacks

How to install the distributor on a Chevy big block?

How to install the distributor on a Chevy big block?

Tighter the bolero loosely where the distributor will still turn. Install the distributor cap with the spark plug wires attached. You will need a flat screwdriver to turn the screws. Fine-tune the timing with a timing light and tighten the distributor bolt. If the Chevy big block misfires, check firing order.

What kind of wire do I need for a big block engine?

“Fat” wires (8.5 and 9 mm are popular) with heat-resistant silicon jackets and other advanced features are a good investment for your highperformance engine.

How does the ignition work on a big block Chevy?

(Photo Courtesy MSD) The HEI is a unitized distributor with magnetic reluctors to trigger its internal control module and an ignition coil built into the large-diameter cap. Note that small-block and big-block Chevy distributors are interchangeable. (Photo Courtesy GMPP)

Where are the cylinders on a Chevy big block?

On the Chevy big block, the odd-number cylinders, No. 1, 3, 5 and 7, are on the driver’s side of the block. The even Nos. 2, 4, 6 and 8 are on the passenger side of the block. Place your finger in the spark plug hole and have a helper crank the engine a little at a time until the compression pushes your finger away from the hole.

How many wires are in a big block spark plug?

Supplied with one left-hand support P/N 12553397, one right-hand support P/N 12553398, three four-wire retainers P/N 88891792, two three-wire retainers P/N 12163607, two two-wire retainers P/N 12132229, and two single-wire retainers P/N 12132228

(Photo Courtesy MSD) The HEI is a unitized distributor with magnetic reluctors to trigger its internal control module and an ignition coil built into the large-diameter cap. Note that small-block and big-block Chevy distributors are interchangeable. (Photo Courtesy GMPP)

What kind of distributor do I need for a big block Chevy?

Note that small-block and big-block Chevy distributors are interchangeable. (Photo Courtesy GMPP) Aftermarket electronic distributors with vacuum advance are ideal for street and strip Rat motors This Street Pro-Billet distributor (PN 8361) from MSD features a small cap for improved firewall clearance.

“Fat” wires (8.5 and 9 mm are popular) with heat-resistant silicon jackets and other advanced features are a good investment for your highperformance engine.

How do you install a distributor on a car?

As you install the distributor, take care not to accidentally move or nudge the rotor. Mount the new distributor on the engine. Re-fasten the distributor in the same spot as the old distributor, lining up the marked location on the distributor housing with the engine mounting point.

How to remove a distributor from an engine?

Remove the bolts that hold the distributor housing to the engine. Carefully and delicately pull the distributor away from the engine.

Is it safe to put a distributor on a car?

Putting a brand new distributor or coil on a vehicle with old or worn spark plug wires and old/worn spark plugs is simply silly and will most likely cause you to replace the same parts over again. Look closely at the ignition system as a whole and most likely a good tune up is due when a distributor or coil failure happens.

How do you remove a distributor from a block?

Make another mark where the base of the distributor meets the block, making sure the mark extends onto both pieces. Figure 2. Mark the base of the distributor. Unbolt the clamp at the base of the distributor and remove. Take hold of the distributor and pull up firmly but slowly.

Where is the ignition pickup on a distributor?

Electronic ignition pickups are a component found on traditional electronic distributor ignition systems. They are located inside the distributor and function as the trigger for the ignition system to produce spark.

What’s the best way to install a distributor?

If the engine won’t start or backfires through the carburetor, install the distributor 180 degrees from where it is and you’ll be in the ball park. Assuming you are replacing the distributor, take out the hold-down clamp that keeps it in place.

How to avoid mistakes when replacing a distributor?

The following is presented to show you how to avoid mistakes and gain a little confidence in the process, whether you are replacing the distributor in an old engine or reassembling a new one. Remember at all times that both valves on the “master” cylinder (usually #1 cylinder) must be closed, meaning the piston is at Top Dead Center.

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Ruth Doyle