1981 Plymouth Sapporo Automatic TransFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Distributors & Ignition Systems: Overhaul: Disassembly

  1. Remove distributor cap and rotor. See Figure. Remove centrifugal advance components as an assembly by removing screw in top of shaft. A socket or box wrench should be used for this purpose.
  2. If governor assembly is further disassembled, be sure 2 different springs are properly identified for correct reassembly. Remove wire clamp screw and clamp. Remove 2 screws securing pick-up coil assembly and IC ignitor and remove them as an assembly.
  3. Remove 2 screws securing vacuum diaphragm assembly. Disengage vacuum diaphragm from breaker assembly. Remove 2 screws retaining breaker assembly, and lift assembly from distributor housing.
  4. Remove 2 screws for bearing retainer plate. Lift out plate. Mark location of drive gear on distributor shaft for later reassembly alignment. Drive out roll pin and remove drive gear. Lift distributor shaft and bearing assembly from housing. Remove housing seal.
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.

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