Distributor Removal Problem

Hey Guys,

I tried removing my distributor to install a new electronic one, but I couldn't get the dang thing out! I put the engine at top dead center, removed both of the bolts underneath the housing, and it wouldn't budge. My Haynes manual is no help and I used the search function on here with no luck. What's the secret on getting these things out? I have a '63 CJ5 with a 134.....

Thanks in advance,

Josh

 

First time I set the timing on my fhead the distributor was stuck and would not turn. It was my first time working on an fhead so I too was unsure if I was doing something wrong. Don't remember how I did it, but I likely forced it and got it to turn. Once it broke loose it was fine. Hasn't been an issue since. Once it turns it will pull out pretty easy.

 

Go easy - I broke one off once, although it was not in a jeep.

 

Mine was stuck real good on an L-head...probably had not been out or timed for years and years....put some penetrating oil around the base and be patient..I did use a dead-blow hammer very gently to loosen it...

 

I will try that! thanks!

 

Update.....

Thanks to the help of some liquid wrench the distributor came right out!

Question: is the distributor housing supposed to sit flush against the plate when it goes back in? I just installed an Omix electronic distributor and I can't get it to seat all the way. However, I got everything hooked back up and all I hear are PUFF PUFF- which means its firing but it also tells me that it may be 180 degrees out. Oh well, try, try again....

 

Are you sure the driving lug on the bottom end of the shaft has registered with and actually entered the slot in the oil pump?

 

Nope! Lol but when I put it in the rotor button seems to lock into place.....so I assume its in there.....but we all know how assumin goes.......

 

Is the distributor supposed to sit flush to the adjustment plate on the block? How do I know that I have it seated correctly?

 

Finally got it. Turns out the new distributor shaft locked into the gear in a different position than the old one.....I moved the plugs around and wala! It worked

 

I tried several times to install the Omix elect. distributor and couldnt get it to tune well, it looks like it miss some minor degrees to be at the right point to get the engine work well. Finally got back to the good-old distr.
Hope you will hav emore success with it.