distributor question

[B.B.D.]

Can i run a distributor from a 84 258 on a 78? I have the motor at T.D.C., but cannot get the rotor to line up with #1 cylinder no matter how much i try, even with aligning the slot in the oil pump I can't get it right. Do i need to use a different drive gear on the dist.? When i do get the dist. to seat, the rotor either points to the radiator or cylinder #2 but it just won't point to #1. Thanks for any help.

[mcmud]

Yeah you can use it, but it will cost you a bit of performance. The pre MCU (computer) SSI distributor will have a larger advance head than the later models used with the MCU.

Make certain that the #1 is in fact TDC on the compression stroke and then set the oil pump drive slot to 3:15 or slightly past the 3 o'clock position and then set the rotor to 4:30 as if the Vacuum Advance Mechanism is pointing straight ahead. This will allow the dist. to slip in at the correct static position. Then rotate the dist until the rotor is pointing at the #1 position, which should then be at the 6 o'clock position. Tighten the retainer but still allowing some rotation for your adjustment.

This setting should allow you to start the engine and then set the Initial timing with a light.

[Rubiconrich]

You can use a Ford 300 Dist. cap rotor and bigger wires. That's the way to go. The AMC dist is a Ford part. This set up is much better then the stock set up.

[mcmud]

X2 on that improvement, well worthwhile.

[carnuck]

Just make sure it's an AMC dist and not Ford or Chev!

[Rubiconrich]

I'm not sure the year but I did it on my 86 CJ7 and it's better then what was there. It's so easy.