Distributor Assembly Replacement

1985 Jeep Cherokee 4WD V6-173 2.8L VIN W 2-bblSECTION Distributor Assembly Replacement

1. Disconnect electrical connector from ignition coil.
2. Disconnect electrical leads to ignition switch and tachometer, if equipped.
3. Using a suitable screwdriver, rotate distributor cap latches counterclockwise, then remove distributor cap and position out of way.
4. Disconnect vacuum hose from vacuum advance unit, if equipped.
5. Mark position of distributor rotor to distributor housing and position of distributor housing to engine.
6. Remove distributor hold down clamp bolts and hold down clamp.
7. Carefully pull distributor upward until rotor stops turning counterclockwise and again mark position of rotor to distributor housing.
8. Remove distributor from engine.
9. Reverse procedure to install, aligning positioning marks made during removal. After completing installation, check ignition timing. If engine was disturbed while distributor was removed, proceed as follows:
a. Remove spark plug from No. 1 cylinder.
b. With finger positioned over No. 1 spark plug opening, slowly rotate engine until compression is felt.
c. Align timing mark on damper with TDC mark on timing degree scale.
d. Position rotor at a point between No. 1 and No. 3 spark plug terminals on distributor cap for 4-151 engines. For V6-173 engines, position rotor at a point between No. 1 and No. 2 spark plug wire terminals on distributor cap.
e. Install distributor on engine and complete installation.



RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.