SDLARS Posted May 31, 2017 Share Posted May 31, 2017 My split head runs fine but working front to back cleaning off decades of dirt and grease. Pulled the engine and transmission. Tried to remove the distributor but can't get it to budge in any direction. What am I missing? I have a service manual. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted May 31, 2017 Share Posted May 31, 2017 You do know that there is a hold down bolt. Left side above the dipstick between #3 and #4. Loosen the lock nut and unscrew with a screw driver. You don't need to remove it entirely. A little penetrant around the base of the distributor and it should lift right out Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SDLARS Posted May 31, 2017 Author Share Posted May 31, 2017 Yup, know about the bolt. I've made a dam around the base and have it soaking in both PB Blaster and my favorite, acetone and ATF. Guess I'll just keep at it. No movement at all yet. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted May 31, 2017 Share Posted May 31, 2017 A possibility is to put a strap type oil filter wrench around the housing and try to rotate it a bit. Not being made of pot metal you could possibly use two short pry bars from opposite sides and just tap them lightly and alternately. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
aussiecowboy Posted June 2, 2017 Share Posted June 2, 2017 I've had this problem, the distributor body rusts into the block. I put a pipe wrench on the shaft of the distributor and while holding moderate pressure on the handle gave the body of the pipe wrench a couple of light hammer blows, it was enough to break the dizzy loose. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SDLARS Posted June 2, 2017 Author Share Posted June 2, 2017 Got it out. Put a vise grip on below the main housing and that along with the penetrant broke it loose. Thanks guys. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted June 2, 2017 Share Posted June 2, 2017 While you have it out check for sideways play in the shaft. Originally there was no bushing in the housing. Just the shaft running in the cast housing. I had trouble keeping my points in adjustment and had a bushing made so the shaft stayed steady in the middle. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
32Pontiac6 Posted June 3, 2017 Share Posted June 3, 2017 I would also check the gear that runs off the camshaft. The one on my '32 (same distributor) was loose and had to put a new pin in to secure it to the shaft. Also, if you can find a place with an old Sun distributor tester you can check the mechanical advance. These distributors do have a significant advance at higher RPM. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SDLARS Posted June 5, 2017 Author Share Posted June 5, 2017 Thanks for the good advice. Your experience is much more helpful than the service manual. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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