Distributor Removal & Installation

Distributor

Replacement distributors are not available preassembled. All the component parts are available to assemble a new distributor.

Some components, such as the air cleaner, may need to be removed to reach the distributor.

The distributor has a separate ignition coil that is bracket-mounted on top of the engine.

Distributor and Ignition Coil 4.3L:

Distributor and Ignition Coil 5.0L And 5.7L:

Distributor and Ignition Coil 7.4L:

Remove or Disconnect

- Make sure the ignition switch is "OFF."

1. Air cleaner and hoses.
2. Wiring harness connectors all the side of the distributor cap.
3. Two screws on the sides of the distributor cap.
4. Ignition coil wire and spark plug wires on either the left of right side of the distributor.
5. Distributor cap and move it aside.
A. Use chalk to note the position of the rotor in relation to the engine.
B. Use chalk to note the position of the distributor housing in relation to the engine.
6. Distributor bolt and hold-down clamp.
7. Distributor and gasket.

Install or Connect

- To ensure correct ignition base timing of the distributor, it must be installed with the rotor correctly positioned as noted in step 5 of the removal procedure. Line up the rotor and the mark on the engine.
- If the distributor shaft won't drop into the engine, insert a screwdriver into the hole for the distributor and turn the oil pump driveshaft to align it with the distributor.

1. Distributor and gasket.

Notice: When fasteners are removed, always reinstall them at the same location from which they were removed. If a fastener needs to be replaced, use the correct part number fastener for that application. If the correct part number fastener is not available, a fastener of equal size and strength (or stronger) may be used. Fasteners that are not reused, and those requiring thread locking compound will be called out. The correct torque value must be used when installing fasteners that require it. If the above conditions are not followed, parts or system damage could result.

2. Hold-down clamp and bolt.

Tighten
- Bolt to 34 Nm (25 lbs. ft.).

3. Distributor cap.
4. Wiring harness connectors at the side of the distributor.
5. Spark plug wires and ignition coil wire.
6. Air cleaner and hoses.
- Check the ignition base timing.