Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1987 Chevrolet Chevette 2D Hatchback, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Ignition System - HEI: Overhaul: Disassembly
- Disconnect wiring harness from distributor cap. Disconnect coil connectors from cap. Remove distributor cap.
- Mark rotor position to distributor housing and distributor housing to engine for later reassembly reference. Remove hold-down bolt and remove distributor housing from engine.
- Remove rotor. Mark distributor shaft and gear so they may be assembled in same position. Drive out roll pin from drive gear while supporting gear to avoid damaging distributor shaft. Remove gear, shim and tanged washer from distributor shaft and clean any burrs from shaft. Remove distributor shaft from housing.NOTE: Do not attempt to service shaft bushings in housing.
- Remove 2 attaching screws holding module to housing and position module so pick-up coil leads can be removed. Remove electronic module. Remove snap ring from housing and lift out pick-up coil assembly. Remove 2 attaching screws and lift out vacuum advance mechanism.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.