1. Disconnect the battery.
- This will prevent the engine from starting while working on the distributor.
2. Remove the distributor cap and rotor.
- Unfasten the screws holding the distributor cap and remove the cap.
- Lift out the rotor from inside the distributor.
3. locate the timing marks on the crankshaft and distributor housing.
- The crankshaft timing mark is usually a notch or hole in the harmonic balancer, while on the distributor housing, it's a small notch or line.
4. Align the timing marks.
- Rotate the crankshaft until the timing marks are aligned. This will ensure the engine is at Top Dead Center (TDC) for cylinder number one.
5. Install the distributor.
- Carefully insert the distributor into the engine, aligning the driveshaft with the oil pump drive.
- Make sure the distributor is fully seated and the timing marks are still aligned.
6. Secure the distributor hold-down clamp.
- Tighten the hold-down clamp to hold the distributor in place.
7. Reconnect the spark plug wires.
- Connect the spark plug wires to the terminals on the distributor cap, matching the firing order of the engine (1-6-5-4-3-2).
8. Install the distributor cap and rotor.
- Replace the rotor and distributor cap, securing it with the screws you removed earlier.
9. Reconnect the battery.
- Reconnect the battery cables to restore power to the engine.
10. Start the engine and check the timing.
- Start the engine and check if the timing is correctly set. You may need to adjust the distributor slightly to get the timing just right.
Remember to consult your vehicle's repair manual or seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any steps. Please remember that incorrect timing can lead to engine damage, so it's essential to ensure it is properly set before operating the vehicle.
