Common questions

How do you refit a distributor?

How do you refit a distributor?

Mark the position of the distributor, by scribing lines on the flange and on the stud plate so that it can be replaced in exactly the same position. Remove the nuts and pull the unit away from its mounting. Twist it gently if it sticks, but do not try to lever it from the engine block with a screwdriver.

Can a engine start with a new distributor?

This step is crucial – if the position of the rotor in your new distributor doesn’t match the position of the rotor in your old distributor, your engine may not start with the new distributor installed. Carefully make a mark inside the distributor housing to indicate the position of the rotor.

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 install a distributor and set initial timing?

Leave a little extra room with the spark plug wires to allow freedom of movement in the distributor. For Chevys, be careful to make sure 5 and 7 are installed correctly. If the wires are accidentally switched, the engine will not be happy. Before we try to start the engine, be sure the distributor is connected to switched power.

How do you install a distributor on a lawn mower?

Ensure your rotor is lined up with the marking you made. 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.

Where to put a distributor on an engine?

To make it a little easier to install the new distributor, it’s a good idea to mark a location on the outside of the distributor housing where the distributor is mounted to the engine. Choose a spot for which you can find a corresponding location on the new distributor.

How do you install a distributor on an oil pump?

To engage the oil pump drive, put very light pressure on the top of the distributor housing and rotate the engine clockwise until the distributor drops into place on the manifold. Once the distributor drops in, install the distributor hold-down clamp and tighten it slightly. (Image/Jeff Smith)

Leave a little extra room with the spark plug wires to allow freedom of movement in the distributor. For Chevys, be careful to make sure 5 and 7 are installed correctly. If the wires are accidentally switched, the engine will not be happy. Before we try to start the engine, be sure the distributor is connected to switched power.

Ensure your rotor is lined up with the marking you made. 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.

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Ruth Doyle