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.
Ignition Distributors - PRESTOLITE: Overhaul: Disassembly
Remove vacuum unit, distributor cap clamp springs, and rotor. On single breaker distributors, push in rubber grommet and remove primary lead. On double breaker distributors, loosen primary terminal post nut and remove primary lead. Remove breaker plate attaching screws and remove breaker plate assembly. Remove cam felt and spring clip retainer from center of cam and remove anti-rattle spring. Clamp distributor in soft-jawed vise and attach a dial indicator to body with indicator plunger against cam. Move shaft back and forth with just enough force to indicate clearance. If sideplay exceeds 0.006", replace bushings or shaft. Remove cam and yoke. Drive retaining pin from drive collar and shaft and remove collar. Remove lower thrust washer and push shaft out through top of housing.
Remove upper thrust washers, oiler and oiler wick. Remove governor weights and springs.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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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.
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