1. Identify the Firing Order: Find the correct firing order for your 1983 Caprice's engine. This is crucial. It's usually found in your owner's manual, a repair manual (like a Chilton's or Haynes), or online through a reputable source specifying your exact engine size (e.g., 305 cubic inch, 350 cubic inch). The firing order is typically a sequence of numbers (e.g., 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2).
2. Identify the Distributor Cap Terminals: The distributor cap will have numbers or markings corresponding to the cylinders. These numbers are usually stamped or molded onto the cap itself, and often aligned with the terminals. Make sure you understand which number corresponds to which cylinder.
3. Identify the Cylinder Numbers on the Engine: Locate the cylinder number markings on the engine block or heads. This helps you visually verify your connections. There are various ways cylinders are numbered, so be certain of your engine's setup.
4. Connect the Wires According to the Firing Order: Following the firing order you found earlier, connect each spark plug wire to the correctly numbered terminal on the distributor cap. For example, if the firing order is 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2 and the number 1 is on the distributor cap, you'd connect the wire coming from cylinder 1 to that terminal. Then connect the wire from cylinder 8 to the terminal marked 8, and so on.
5. Secure the Connections: Ensure each wire is firmly seated on its terminal. A loose connection will cause misfires. Some caps may have clips to hold the wires in place.
6. Double-Check Your Work: Before starting the car, meticulously check *every* connection one more time. It is very easy to make a mistake. Confirm the firing order matches perfectly.
Important Considerations:
* Rotor Position: The distributor rotor should point to the correct cylinder (usually cylinder #1) when the engine is at top dead center (TDC) on the compression stroke. This is important for proper timing. If you've removed the distributor, you'll need to ensure its properly aligned. Again, a repair manual is your friend here.
* Engine Type: The specific procedure may vary slightly based on your engine's type (e.g., V6, V8).
* Wear and Tear: If the distributor cap, rotor, or spark plug wires are worn or damaged, replace them before attempting to start the engine.
If you are uncomfortable performing this task, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic. Improperly connecting the spark plug wires can lead to engine damage.
