Distributor: Service and Repair

Distributor, removing and installing

Special tools, testers and auxiliary items

Pin wrench Matra V159
VAG 1331 torque wrench (5-50 Nm)

Note: The Engine Control Module (ECM) requires the no. 1 cylinder TDC signal from the camshaft position sensor to orient the fuel injection and knock sensor systems as per firing order

Checking no.1 cylinder TDC markings:






- Set flywheel -A- or drive plate -B- to TDC no.1 cylinder.

Engine removed






- Set vibration damper (V-belt pulley) to TDC no.1 cylinder.






- Mark on camshaft sprocket must align with arrow on cylinder head cover.






- Mark on distributor must align with mark on rotor arm or camshaft position sensor cover.

Removing and installing distributor

Test conditions

Crankshaft and camshaft in no.1 cylinder TDC position

Work sequence

- Remove distributor.






- Before installing the distributor, align oil pump shaft drive tongue parallel to crankshaft.






- Install distributor. The pins on the distributor must point toward mounting bolt threaded hole (arrow)

Note: When installing, turn rotor arm slightly right of the distributor marking. When insterting, rotor arm will turn back to the marking.






- Mark on distributor must align with mark on rotor arm or camshaft position sensor cover.
- Tighten distributor mounting bolt.
Tightening torque: 25 Nm (18 ft lb)

If not able to align markings:

- Loosen belt tensioner and take toothed drive belt off camshaft sprocket






- Turn intermediate shaft sprocket with toothed drive belt in direction shown (arrow), until rotor arm aligns with markings for no.1 cylinder on distributor housing (toothed drive belt slides over crankshaft sprocket).






Mark on distributor must align with mark on rotor arm or camshaft position sensor cover.

- Place toothed drive belt on belt tensioner and camshaft sprocket.

Note: For easier installation of the toothed drive belt; loosen belt tensioner lock nut only approx. one thread.






- To tighten toothed drive belt, turn tensioner with pin wrench (e.g. Matra Vi 59) in direction shown (arrow).
Drive belt is correctly tensioned if it can be turned 90° with the thumb and forefinger halfway between camshaft and intermediate shaft sprockets.

- Tighten tensioner lock nut.
Tightening torque: 45 Nm (33 ft lb)

- Rotate crankshaft two full turns and check adjustment.
- Check distributor housing and rotor arm markings.
- Install upper toothed belt protective cover.
- Before installing, clean distributor cap and check for cracks and signs of carbon tracking, replace if necessary.