5 Easy Steps: How To Install A Distributor

Distributor Installation

Installing a distributor is a crucial task in the maintenance of an internal combustion engine. It’s a precision component that ensures the timely delivery of spark to the engine’s cylinders, optimizing performance and minimizing emissions. However, attempting this installation without adequate knowledge and preparation can lead to costly mistakes. Hence, it’s imperative to approach this task with a clear understanding of the distributor’s function, the necessary tools, and the step-by-step process involved.

Before embarking on the installation, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools and equipment. These include a distributor wrench, a spark plug wrench, a timing light, and a torque wrench. It’s also advisable to have a new distributor cap and rotor on hand to replace the old ones during the process. Additionally, it’s crucial to refer to your vehicle’s service manual for specific instructions and torque specifications pertaining to your particular engine model.

With the necessary tools at your disposal, you can proceed with the distributor installation. Begin by disconnecting the negative terminal of the battery to ensure electrical safety. Locate the distributor on the engine, typically driven by the camshaft. Remove the old distributor cap and rotor, marking the position of the rotor for reference during reinstallation. Next, carefully remove the distributor hold-down bolt and lift the distributor straight up, being mindful not to damage the oil pump drive gear below. Clean the mating surfaces of the distributor and engine, applying a thin layer of grease to the oil pump drive gear for lubrication.

Essential Tools and Components

Before embarking on the task of installing a distributor, it is crucial to gather the necessary tools and acquire the essential components. This preparatory step will ensure that the process is smooth and successful.

Essential Tools

Distributor Wrench: This specialized tool is designed specifically for removing and installing the distributor hold-down bolt, which secures the distributor in place. It is typically a six-point wrench, although some distributors may require a different type.
Socket Wrench Set: A socket wrench set, consisting of both sockets and a ratchet, is essential for removing and tightening bolts and nuts throughout the installation. Various socket sizes may be required depending on the specific distributor and vehicle application.
Timing Light: A timing light is used to verify and adjust the distributor’s position to ensure that the engine is firing at the correct time. It emits a bright flash of light that illuminates timing marks on the engine’s crankshaft pulley.
Feeler Gauge: A feeler gauge is a thin metal blade with varying thicknesses. It is used to measure the gap between the distributor points and the cam lobe, which is critical for proper distributor operation.
Spark Plug Wrench: A spark plug wrench is designed to fit the specific size and type of spark plugs in the vehicle. It is used to remove and install the spark plugs, which are essential for the engine’s combustion process.
Vacuume Gauge: A vacuume gauge measures the vacuum in the intake manifold, which can help diagnose potential issues related to the distributor or other engine components.
Electrical Test Light: An electrical test light is a device that uses a probe to check the presence of electrical current or voltage in the distributor circuit. It helps identify any electrical problems that may affect distributor operation.

Essential Components

Distributor: The distributor itself is the central component of the installation. It distributes electrical impulses from the ignition coil to the spark plugs in the correct firing order.
Distributor Cap: The distributor cap sits on top of the distributor and houses the electrical contacts that distribute the impulses to the spark plug wires.
Rotor: The rotor is a spinning component inside the distributor that makes contact with the distributor cap contacts, completing the electrical circuit and directing the impulses to the appropriate spark plug wires.
Spark Plug Wires: Spark plug wires connect the distributor cap to the spark plugs, carrying the electrical impulses to the combustion chambers.
Points (if applicable): Some distributors use points to open and close the electrical circuit, allowing current to flow to the spark plugs. If points are present, they need to be adjusted for proper distributor operation.

Locating the Distributor’s Position

The distributor is a vital component in the ignition system of an internal combustion engine. It is responsible for distributing electrical current to the spark plugs in the correct firing order. In order to properly install a distributor, it is first necessary to locate its correct position.

1. Reference Marks

Most engines have reference marks on the timing cover and on the distributor housing. These marks indicate the correct position of the distributor relative to the crankshaft and camshaft. Align the reference marks on the distributor housing with the corresponding marks on the timing cover.

2. Firing Order

The firing order is a specific sequence in which the spark plugs in an engine are fired. It is determined by the design of the engine and the position of the camshaft and crankshaft. To determine the firing order of your engine, refer to the vehicle’s service manual or technical information. Once you know the firing order, you can use it to align the distributor with the correct spark plug wires.

Cylinder Number	Firing Order
1	1-3-4-2
2	1-3-4-2
3	1-3-4-2
4	1-3-4-2

By following these steps, you can accurately locate the distributor’s position and ensure its proper installation.

Removing the Old Distributor

Before removing the old distributor, it is crucial to ensure that the ignition system is turned off by disconnecting the battery. This step is essential to prevent any electrical shocks or damage to the vehicle’s electrical system.

1. Disconnect the Ignition Wires

Locate the ignition wires connected to the distributor cap. These wires are responsible for delivering the spark to the spark plugs. Carefully detach each ignition wire from the distributor cap, ensuring that they are marked or labeled to maintain the correct firing order during reassembly.

2. Remove the Distributor Cap

After disconnecting the ignition wires, remove the distributor cap by unfastening the retaining bolts or clips that secure it. Lift the cap off the distributor body, taking care not to damage the internal components.

3. Mark the Position of the Distributor

This step is crucial for precise reinstallation. Before removing the distributor from the engine, use a marking pen or paint to make a reference mark on the distributor housing and the engine block. This mark will serve as a guide when reinstalling the distributor to ensure proper timing.

4. Remove the Distributor

Once the distributor is marked, carefully withdraw it from the engine. Avoid rotating the distributor while removing it, as this could disturb the ignition timing. Gently pull the distributor straight up, being mindful not to damage the distributor gear or the engine.

Installing the New Distributor

1. Remove the Old Distributor

Disconnect the battery, remove the spark plug wires, and locate the distributor. Remove the hold-down bolt and pull the distributor straight up out of the engine.

2. Install the New Distributor

Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the distributor shaft and slide it into the engine. Align the distributor rotor with the #1 cylinder spark plug wire, and turn the distributor until the rotor aligns with the mark on the distributor housing.

3. Secure the Distributor

Tighten the distributor hold-down bolt to torque. Reconnect the battery, reconnect the spark plug wires, and double-check all connections.

4. Set Ignition Timing

Locate the timing mark on the crankshaft pulley and the corresponding mark on the engine block. Use a timing light to align the marks at the desired ignition timing. Adjust the distributor as needed by loosening the hold-down bolt and rotating the distributor slightly.

Connecting Electrical Wiring

1. Identify the Components

Locate the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on the distributor and the ignition coil. Clean any corrosion or dirt from the terminals.

2. Connect the Coil Wire

Insert the distributor cap over the distributor body and connect the coil wire to the terminal on the coil labeled “DIST” or “Ignition.”

3. Connect the Ignition Control Module (ICM) Wire

If your vehicle has an ICM, connect the wire from the module to the terminal on the distributor labeled “ICM” or “Tach.”

4. Connect the Tachometer Wire

If your vehicle has a tachometer, connect the wire from the tach to the terminal on the distributor labeled “TACH.”

5. Install and Secure the Distributor Wires

Insert the distributor wires into the corresponding terminals on the distributor cap. Ensure they’re fully seated and securely pushed down. Here’s a table for reference:


Ignition Timing Degrees
4-cylinder engines: 10-12 degrees BTDC
6-cylinder engines: 12-14 degrees BTDC
8-cylinder engines: 14-16 degrees BTDC

Cylinder	Terminal on Distributor Cap
1	1
2	2
3	7
4	8
5	3
6	6
7	4
8	5

6. Check Connections

Double-check that all electrical connections are tight and properly seated. Inspect the wires for any damage or loose connections.

Adjusting Distributor Timing

1. Locate the distributor cap and remove it by turning it counterclockwise.

2. Turn the engine over until the timing mark on the crankshaft pulley aligns with the “0” mark on the timing cover.

3. Drop the distributor into the engine and align the rotor with the “1” cylinder on the distributor cap.

4. Tighten the distributor hold-down bolt.

5. Replace the distributor cap and tighten it securely.

6. Start the engine and check the timing with a timing light. The timing mark on the crankshaft pulley should align with the correct mark on the timing cover.

Timing Light Procedure

Step 1: Connect the timing light

Connect the timing light to the battery, the engine ground, and the number one spark plug wire.

Step 2: Start the engine

Engine Type	Timing Light Setting
Gasoline	Inductive
Diesel	Capacitive

Step 3: Point the timing light

Point the timing light at the timing mark on the crankshaft pulley.

Step 4: Adjust the timing

Adjust the distributor until the timing mark on the crankshaft pulley aligns with the correct mark on the timing cover.

Step 5: Tighten the distributor

Tighten the distributor hold-down bolt to secure the distributor in place.

Double-Checking Connections

After you have installed the distributor and connected all the wiring, take a moment to double-check your connections. This will help to ensure that everything is properly connected and that there are no loose wires that could cause problems later on. Here are a few things to look for when double-checking your connections:

1. Make sure that the distributor cap is properly seated on the distributor body. There should be no gaps between the cap and the body, and the cap should be securely fastened in place with the correct number of screws.

2. Check that the spark plug wires are securely connected to the distributor cap and the spark plugs. The wires should be pushed all the way onto the terminals, and there should be no loose connections.

3. Inspect the wiring harness for any loose or damaged wires. Make sure that all of the wires are properly connected to the distributor and that there are no frayed or broken wires.

4. Double-check that the timing belt or chain is properly installed and tensioned. The timing belt or chain should be installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications, and it should be properly tensioned to ensure that the camshaft and crankshaft are synchronized.

5. Verify that the fuel pump is properly connected to the distributor. The fuel pump should be connected to the distributor with a fuel line, and the connection should be secure.

6. Check that the vacuum advance is properly connected to the distributor. The vacuum advance should be connected to the distributor with a vacuum line, and the connection should be secure.

7. Double-check that all of the necessary sensors are connected to the distributor. This includes the camshaft position sensor, the crankshaft position sensor, and the knock sensor. The sensors should be properly connected to the distributor, and the connections should be secure.

Connection	Check
Distributor cap to distributor body	Properly seated, no gaps, securely fastened
Spark plug wires to distributor cap and spark plugs	Securely connected, no loose connections
Wiring harness to distributor	No loose or damaged wires, all wires properly connected
Timing belt or chain	Properly installed and tensioned
Fuel pump to distributor	Securely connected with fuel line
Vacuum advance to distributor	Securely connected with vacuum line
Necessary sensors to distributor	Properly connected, secure connections

Starting the Engine

Once the distributor is installed, it’s time to start the engine. Here are the steps:

1. Verify Timing

Reconnect the battery.
Remove the distributor cap and rotate the engine until the rotor points to the #1 spark plug wire terminal.
Insert a timing light into the #1 spark plug wire.
Point the timing light at the timing marks on the crankshaft pulley.

The timing mark should align with the “0” or “TDC” mark on the pulley.

2. Adjust Timing (if necessary)

If the timing is off, loosen the distributor hold-down bolt.
Slowly rotate the distributor in either direction until the timing mark aligns with the 0 or TDC mark.
Tighten the distributor hold-down bolt.

3. Check Distributor Advance

Start the engine and let it idle.
Disconnect and reconnect the vacuum advance hose to the distributor.
The engine RPM should increase when the hose is reconnected, indicating that the distributor advance is working.

4. Adjust Idle Speed

If the engine is not idling smoothly, adjust the idle speed screw on the carburetor or throttle body.
Turn the screw clockwise to increase the idle speed, or counterclockwise to decrease it.

5. Test Drive the Vehicle

Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure that the engine is running properly.
Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.
If any problems are detected, recheck the distributor installation and timing.

6. Recheck Timing after Test Drive

After the test drive, stop the engine and let it cool down.
Recheck the timing with the timing light to ensure that it has not shifted.
If necessary, make any necessary adjustments.

Verifying Proper Timing

Once the distributor is installed, it is essential to verify the timing to ensure optimal engine performance. Follow these steps to check the timing:

1. Disconnect the Spark Plugs

Remove the spark plug wires from the spark plugs to prevent accidental ignition.

2. Attach Timing Light

Connect a timing light to the spark plug wire of the first cylinder. Secure the timing light’s inductive clamp around the spark plug wire.

3. Set Engine to Top Dead Center (TDC)

Locate the timing mark on the crankshaft pulley or flywheel. Slowly rotate the crankshaft clockwise until the mark aligns with the zero mark or specified timing mark on the engine.

4. Align Distributor Rotor

With the engine at TDC, remove the distributor cap and locate the rotor. Align the rotor with the terminal in the distributor cap that corresponds to the first cylinder’s spark plug wire.

5. Reinstall Distributor Cap

Carefully replace the distributor cap and secure it.

6. Connect Timing Light

Reconnect the timing light to the first cylinder and aim it at the timing mark.

7. Start Engine

Start the engine and observe the timing mark with the timing light.

8. Adjust Distributor

If the timing mark does not align with the specified mark, loosen the distributor hold-down bolt and slowly rotate the distributor until the mark aligns. Tighten the bolt.

9. Fine-Tune Timing

Once the timing mark is initially aligned, consult the vehicle’s service manual for the specified timing advance. Use a timing light with an adjustable dial to set the fine-tuned timing by rotating the distributor accordingly. Repeat steps 6-8 until the timing is within the specified range.

After verifying the timing, reconnect the spark plug wires and double-check the timing to ensure that it has not changed.

Setting the Ignition Timing

Once the distributor is installed, the ignition timing must be set. This is typically done with a timing gun and a reference mark on the engine. The correct ignition timing will vary depending on the engine, so it is important to consult the manufacturer’s specifications.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Engine Won’t Start

If the engine won’t start after installing a new distributor, there are a few things to check:

Make sure the distributor is properly seated in the engine.
Check the ignition wires to make sure they are connected to the correct terminals.
Make sure the spark plugs are properly gapped and installed.

2. Engine Runs Rough or Stalls

If the engine runs rough or stalls after installing a new distributor, there are a few things to check:

Make sure the ignition timing is set correctly.
Check the distributor cap and rotor for damage or cracks.
Make sure the vacuum advance is working properly.

3. Engine Has a Backfire

If the engine has a backfire after installing a new distributor, there are a few things to check:

Make sure the ignition wires are connected to the correct terminals.
Check the spark plugs to make sure they are properly gapped and installed.
Make sure the ignition timing is set correctly.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips
If you are still having trouble getting the engine to run properly after installing a new distributor, there are a few additional things to try:
Check the fuel system to make sure it is functioning properly.
Check the compression to make sure the engine is healthy.
Have the engine checked by a qualified mechanic.

How To Install A Distributor

Installing a distributor is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about an hour. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the distributor is installed correctly. Otherwise, you could damage your engine.

Here are the steps on how to install a distributor:

Remove the old distributor. To do this, you will need to disconnect the spark plug wires and the vacuum advance line. Then, use a wrench to loosen the distributor hold-down bolt and remove the distributor from the engine.
Install the new distributor. Apply a small amount of grease to the distributor shaft and insert it into the engine. Be sure to align the distributor gear with the camshaft gear.
Tighten the distributor hold-down bolt. Once the distributor is in place, tighten the hold-down bolt to 18 ft-lbs.
Connect the spark plug wires. Be sure to connect the wires to the correct spark plugs.
Connect the vacuum advance line. The vacuum advance line should be connected to the intake manifold.
Start the engine and check for leaks. Once the distributor is installed, start the engine and check for any leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the distributor hold-down bolt or replace the vacuum advance line.