Distributor Disassembly, Test and Reassembly

Measuring Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor Resistance:

Electronic Spark Advance Ignition Control (IC) Distributor:

Adjusting Signal Rotor Air Gap (typical):

TOOL REQUIRED
J 39200 Digital Multimeter

MEASURE
Using a J 39200 digital multimeter, measure resistance of the camshaft position (CMP) sensor between the two terminals of the distributor connector. If the resistance is not 205 to 255 ohms, the CMP sensor must be replaced.

REMOVE OR DISCONNECT
1. Distributor rotor from distributor housing.
2. CMP sensor cover from CMP sensor.
3. Two screws and CMP sensor from distributor housing.

INSPECT
1. Distributor housing for corrosion or wear. Also check the shaft for excessive end play and the signal rotor for damage and wear. If any defects are noted, replace the distributor housing assembly.
2. Rotor for wear or cracks. Replace as necessary.
3. Distributor cap for carbon tracking, arcing or cracks. Replace as necessary.
4. Distributor shaft 0-ring seal for wear or tears. Replace as necessary.

INSTALL OR CONNECT
1. CMP sensor to distributor housing; secure with two screws. Do not tighten fully.
2. CMP sensor cover to CMP sensor.

ADJUST
Align a signal rotor ridge with the ridge on the CMP sensor by rotating the signal rotor. Signal rotor air gap to 0.2 to 0.4 mm (0.008 to 0.016-inch) by moving the CMP sensor in relation to the signal rotor. Tighten CMP sensor retaining screws to 5 Nm (44 lb in).

3. Distributor rotor to distributor housing.

IMPORTANT: If the engine was cranked after the distributor was removed, refer to Reestablishing Distributor Position. RE-Establishing Distributor Position

4. Distributor housing to cylinder head. Match the marks made on the cylinder head and distributor housing during removal. Also match the distributor coupling and housing alignment marks.
5. Two distributor flange bolts. Do not tighten fully.
6. New distributor cap seal to distributor cap.
7. Distributor cap to distributor; secure with two screws.
8. Distributor electrical connector.
9. Negative (-) battery cable. Tighten negative (-) battery cable-to-negative (-) battery terminal retainer to 15 Nm (11 lb ft).

ADJUST
Set ignition timing. Refer to Ignition System / Adjustments. Adjustments