Got a new engine? You still...
Got a new engine? You still have to drop in the distributor. We are using our fresh 302 for illustration purposes, but the theory is the same if the engine is in the car. Just remember to disconnect the battery to avoid the electric nerve dance.
If you are anything like us, you've stabbed a distributor one tooth off at least once and put 'er in 180 degrees out more times than you are willing to admit. Swapping a points distributor for something a little more billet or simply pulling a race piece out for a recurve or a new gear should be a simple 20-minute operation. But if you get it wrong, you can spend the night in the garage. We don't want that and neither do you, so follow along as we show you two different scenarios for installing a distributor so you can get it right the first time.
 The first method is for swapping...  The first method is for swapping points to an electronic distributor or pulling one for repair where the engine will not be cranked while the distributor is out. Using a pen, tape, or a scrawl, mark the location of the distributor housing in relation to the engine block. In this case, we used the wiring connector as a guide. This will create a reference point so you can reinstall the distributor in the same position as it was when you removed it, ensuring that the engine will start. |  Once you've marked the position...  Once you've marked the position of the distributor in relation to the block, you can pop the cap and mark the location of the rotor in relation to the housing. This is important because moving the rotor in relation to the housing changes timing and, if it is moved far enough, can fire the wrong cylinder in the firing order. Then it goes bang and your dog runs away and your friends laugh. |  Once you have marked both...  Once you have marked both locations, twist the housing left and right while you pull on the distributor. Do it slowly so you can watch the rotor move as the cam gear and distributor shaft gear disengage. |
 Before the distributor is...  Before the distributor is completely removed from the engine, draw a small circle on the housing to indicate the new location of the rotor. It's usually an inch or so from its original position. This mark tells you where to set the rotor before you stab the distributor back in. |  Perform the repairs or prepare...  Perform the repairs or prepare the new distributor by following the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Remember to install curve kits and new parts before you reinstall the distributor. Line up the rotor with the circle, and the housing with the mark on the engine block, and drop the distributor back into place. |  When the housing seats on...  When the housing seats on the block, the rotor should twist back into its original position. It might take a couple of tries and some choice French swear words. |