Distributor-oil Pump Question

Was wondering about this - I used this for the shims on the D18 output cap. I have the Indian Head Shellac - never actually used it. Was figuring either of these would have less affect on thickness than any RTV or similar (permatex #2) type gasket maker.

 

Ok - I polished up all the mating surfaces the best I could. I used the copper spray gasket on both sides of the wax paper-esque gaskets. Its quite a trick to hold the bottom of the pump, the thrust plate with the gasket in between, then have the gasket on top of the thrust plate, and get it in place without letting the oil pump shaft and gears fall out and screwing up the gasket surfaces or getting something out of place. I did pack the gears with vasoline - that also helps hold the gears in place while getting all the other pieces in place. I also put thread sealant on all the mounting bolts - I think a couple of them go into the oil plumbing and were allowing oil seepage. Going to let things sit overnight and work on it some more tomorrow with dropping the distributor back in and testing for vertical free-play.

I also found the distributor shim I made from a thin washer but never used - I had to reshape the outer diameter a bit for it to fit correctly. Its ready to go if its needed. I smoothed up the staking on the top of the shaft so the advance mechanism and weights can move more freely. I tried to figure out how to install some sort of felt washer or something to help minimize the oil influx - not really sure I see any way to do it. I did not want to take the snap ring off that is above the top brash bushing - I can't really tell what looks to be press fit and once I take it apart I won't be able to get it back together.