Distributor: Description and Operation

The distributor ignition system has a camshaft driven distributor. The powertrain control module (PCM) controls the dwell times for the ignition system.

Initial timing adjustments are not necessary unless the distributor has been moved from its factory setting or removed from the engine.

The bottom of the distributor shaft is geared to the camshaft. A distributor rotor is mounted on top of the shaft. The distributor rotor transfers current from the ignition coil to distributor high tension wiring to the distributor to spark plug wires.

The distributor is not serviceable, and is only replaced as an assembly. The distributor cap and distributor rotor are serviced separately.