2. Remove the distributor cap. To remove the distributor cap, simply pull it straight up. Be careful not to drop the cap or any of the components inside it.
3. Find the rotor. The rotor is a small, cylindrical-shaped component that is located inside the distributor cap. It is attached to the distributor shaft and rotates when the engine is running.
4. Align the rotor with the number one spark plug wire. The number one spark plug wire is the one that is closest to the front of the engine. To align the rotor with the number one spark plug wire, simply turn the distributor shaft until the rotor is pointing directly at the number one spark plug wire terminal.
5. Install the distributor cap. Once the rotor is aligned with the number one spark plug wire, you can install the distributor cap. Simply push the cap down until it is seated securely.
6. Tighten the distributor hold-down bolt. The distributor hold-down bolt is located at the base of the distributor. Tighten the hold-down bolt until it is snug.
7. Start the engine and check the timing. Once the distributor is installed, you need to start the engine and check the timing. To check the timing, you will need a timing light.
* Connect the timing light to the battery and to the number one spark plug wire.
* Start the engine and let it idle.
* Aim the timing light at the timing marks on the engine. The timing marks are located on the harmonic balancer, which is a large, circular component that is located at the front of the engine.
* If the timing marks are not aligned, you will need to adjust the distributor. To adjust the distributor, loosen the distributor hold-down bolt and turn the distributor shaft until the timing marks are aligned.
* Once the timing marks are aligned, tighten the distributor hold-down bolt.
