1. Ensure Proper Installation of Other Components: Before even thinking about the distributor, make sure everything else related to the ignition system is correctly installed:
* Ignition Coil: Properly seated and connected.
* Spark Plug Wires: Correctly routed to their respective cylinders (firing order is critical). A misfire due to incorrect wiring will lead to a very hard-to-diagnose problem.
* Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP): This is vital for the computer to know where the engine is in its rotation. Make sure it's correctly installed and the gap is correct.
* Cam Position Sensor (CMP): Similar to the CKP, this sensor is crucial for accurate timing.
2. Setting the Distributor:
* Rotate the Engine: Turn the engine by hand (using a wrench on the crankshaft bolt) until the timing mark on the harmonic balancer aligns with the 0° mark on the timing cover. This is the engine's TDC (Top Dead Center) for cylinder #1 on the compression stroke. This is the most critical step. Double-check this several times. A slight misalignment will throw off the timing significantly.
* Install the Distributor: Carefully align the distributor shaft so that the rotor points toward the #1 spark plug wire terminal on the cap. There is usually a rotor alignment mark that should correspond to a mark on the distributor housing.
* Lightly Install the Distributor: Gently lower the distributor into the engine block. You should feel it drop into place. Do not force it.
* Connect the Wiring: Connect the ignition coil wire and the distributor wiring harness.
3. Computer Learns Timing:
* Start the Engine: After installing the distributor, crank the engine. The computer will sense the crankshaft and camshaft positions via their respective sensors. It will then use this information to learn the timing and adjust it accordingly.
* Check for Codes: After the engine runs for a few minutes, check for any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) using an OBD-II scanner. Codes related to the ignition system or timing suggest a problem with the installation.
* Let the Computer Adapt: The computer will continue to fine-tune the ignition timing based on various engine parameters (like temperature and load). Give it some time to fully adjust.
* Professional Scan Tool: A professional-grade scan tool that can display real-time timing data is highly recommended to verify the computer is learning the timing correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Remanufactured Engine: Even though it's remanufactured, the distributor might not be perfectly aligned internally. This is why the computer's learning process is so important.
* Professional Assistance: If you're not comfortable with these steps, it's best to have a qualified mechanic perform the installation. An incorrectly timed engine can lead to poor performance, damage, or even catastrophic failure.
* Timing Light: While not strictly necessary for this engine since the computer controls the timing, a timing light can help verify that the distributor is somewhat close (this is more common with engines without computer-controlled timing).
Improper installation of the distributor could result in poor engine performance, hard starting, misfires, and potentially damage to the engine. Take your time, be meticulous, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed.
