Step 1: Find the Top Dead Center (TDC)
Before installing the distributor, you need to locate the top dead center (TDC) of the engine’s number one cylinder. This can be achieved by removing the spark plug from the number one cylinder and using a piston stop tool to prevent the number one piston from rotating. Then, using a breaker bar and socket, rotate the engine’s crankshaft clockwise until you reach the highest point of the number one cylinder’s travel. You can use a timing light to confirm you are in TDC.
Step 2: Prep the Distributor
Now that you have found the TDC, it’s time to prepare the distributor for installation. First, ensure that the distributor cap and rotor are in good condition and free of any debris or corrosion. You should also lubricate the distributor’s gears and shaft with assembly lube before installation to prevent damage to the gear teeth. TIP: Clean everything thoroughly before assembly!
Step 3: Install the Distributor
Once you have prepared the distributor, you can begin installing it. Start by aligning the rotor pointing towards the number one cylinder’s spark plug wire location. Now, insert the distributor shaft and gear through the engine block’s hole where the distributor fits. Make sure It goes in smoothly. Then, turn the rotor a bit so that it aligns in the direction of the number one spark plug wire location you noted earlier.
Step 4: Tighten the Distributor
Once the distributor is in position, you can tighten it down. Finger-tighten the bolts before tightening them with a wrench. Ensure that the distributor is seated properly in the engine block and that it doesn’t wobble when it’s touched. Also, it’s essential to torque the bolts to their proper specification mentioned in your engine manual.
Step 5: Reinstall Wiring
With the distributor in place, you can reconnect the wiring. Reattach the distributor cap, spark plug wires, and coil wire to the appropriate terminals. Consult your engine manual to ensure that you’re connecting the wires correctly. Also, replace the spark plugs if they’re worn out or corroded.
Step 6: Double Check Everything
Before starting the engine, double-check everything to ensure that the distributor is installed correctly and the wires are appropriately connected. It’s best to use a timing light to check the timing is correct, so the spark is firing at the right moment. If the timing is off, you can adjust it by turning the distributor. Mark the spot of the original position of the distributor so that you can return it if needed.
In conclusion, installing a distributor isn’t rocket science, and typically it takes less than half an hour to complete. Follow the steps outlined above, and you should have a properly installed distributor that’ll give your engine the right spark to run efficiently. Remember, it’s critical to ensure that the wiring is neatly arranged and that everything is connected correctly before starting the engine. Consult your engine manual or speak to your mechanic for any further questions. Happy fixing!