How should the rotor be pointing when replacing distributor on a Lincoln Town Car?

When replacing a distributor on a Lincoln Town Car (or any vehicle), the rotor should be pointing towards the number one cylinder. This is crucial for proper ignition timing. You'll need to find the number one cylinder location in your vehicle's repair manual or online resources specific to your Town Car's engine (e.g., a 4.6L, 5.0L, etc.). The manual will show you how to locate cylinder #1.

Before you begin:

* Mark the rotor's position: Before removing the old distributor, make a mark on the distributor housing and the rotor to note its initial position. This will help if you have trouble identifying #1 cylinder.

* Use a timing light: Once the new distributor is installed, a timing light will verify the rotor is correctly positioned to the number one cylinder.

Ignoring this step can lead to misfiring, hard starting, and poor engine performance. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for the most accurate and detailed instructions.