DS III

Distributor Cap Identification:

Distributor Rotor Identification:

INTRODUCTION
The first design distributor is a carryover from the 1978 Versailles EEC I system and is used on 1978 and some 1979-80 models. Late 1979, a second design distributor was introduced. This unit is used on some 1979-82 models. The two designs are interchangeable as a complete distributor assembly only. However, sub-assemblies for the two distributors are not interchangeable. To differentiate between the two designs, check the brass center electrode plate tip and rotor, see figures. Incorrect interchange of the distributor caps or rotors will damage the distributor.

DISTRIBUTOR, REPLACE

1980 First Design Units

NOTE: The distributor on these vehicles is locked in place during engine assembly and no rotational adjustment is possible. A slot in the distributor base mounting flange fits around the distributor clamp hold-down bolt which prevents movement. Adjustment is not required since timing is controlled by the Electronic Control Assembly (ECA).

1. Remove distributor cap and insert the rotor alignment tool. Refer to "Distributor Rotor, Replace", if needed. Distributor Rotor, Replace
2. With rotor alignment tool installed, loosen the distributor hold-down bolt and clamp, then remove alignment tool.
3. Slowly remove distributor assembly from engine block, noting position of rotor blade with respect to distributor housing when the cam and distributor disengage.

CAUTION: Do not rotate engine after the distributor has been removed.

4. To install, position distributor in engine so that when fully seated, the following conditions are met:
a. The slot on distributor base hold-down flange is aligned with the clamp bolt hole in the block.
b. The slot in the upper blade of the rotor is approximately aligned with slot in adapter.

NOTE: If alignment is not possible when distributor is fully seated, raise the distributor to disengage the drive gear and rotate distributor shaft. slightly to allow the next tooth on the distributor drive gear to engage the cam gear. Repeat this procedure until conditions outlined in steps "a and b" above are met.

5. Install distributor to block clamp and bolt and torque to 17 ft. lbs.
6. Install rotor and distributor cap. Refer to "Distributor Rotor, Replace", if needed.

1980-82 Second Design Units

NOTE: The distributor on these vehicles are locked in place during engine assembly and no rotational adjustment is possible. A slot in the distributor base mounting flange fits around the distributor clamp hold-down bolt which prevents movement. Adjustment is not required since timing is controlled by the ECA.

1. Remove distributor cap and rotor assembly. Remove No. 1 spark plug and crank engine until compression pressure is felt in No. 1 cylinder. Align engine timing pointer with the proper timing mark on the crankshaft damper.

NOTE: Ensure No. 1 piston is not on the exhaust stroke as rotor will be misaligned by 180 degrees when installed. Alignment slot in sleeve should align with the slot in the adapter.

2. Remove distributor hold-down bolt and clamp.
3. Lift distributor from engine, noting position of the alignment slot in sleeve in relation to the alignment slot in the adapter when the cam and distributor gears disengage.

CAUTION: Do not crank engine after the distributor has been removed.

4. Position distributor in engine so that when fully seated, the following conditions are met:
a. The slot on the distributor base hold-down flange is aligned with the hold-down clamp bolt hole in the block.
b. The large slot in the distributor sleeve assembly is approximately aligned with the slot in the adapter.

NOTE: If alignment is not possible when distributor is fully seated, raise the distributor to disengage the drive gear and rotate distributor shaft slightly to allow the next tooth on the distributor drive gear to engage the cam gear. Repeat this procedure until conditions outlined in steps "a" and "b" above are met.

5. Install distributor holddown clamp and bolt, then torque to 17 ft. lbs.
6. Ensure slot in sleeve assembly aligns with slot in adapter. Refer to "Distributor Rotor Replace," if adjustment is necessary. Install rotor and distributor cap.

NOTE: When installing a new distributor cap, coat the lower electrode blades with silicone grease about 1/32 inch thick.