QuestionTaz: How can I verify that the distributor in my Chevy 235 I-6 is properly installed? The engine seems to want more timing advance than the adjustment will allow. If it is off by a cog or two, what is the easiest way to rectify? Do I need an expert to check this out and fix? Thanks for your help.
AnswerFirst of all, my name is Tazz, I am a Chickasaw Indian, not a 1955 cartoon.
The distrubutor can easily be reset by putting your motor at TDC. This means aligning the timing mark on your harmonic balancer exactly on zero with the engine in compression stroke. If the engine runs now, it will be the cycle closest to the rotor pointing to #1 spark plug. But be sure and put it on TDC, not what your are trying to set it on, such as 6 BTC.
Then remove the lock down bolt completely and lift the distributor out. Turn rotor to the setting you want and reinstall. The cam gear will make the rotor turn on the way down, so it takes a couple of tries to see where it ends and pre-set accordingly to end up in the right setting.
Re-install retainer bolt. Then time your engine normally, and you should have enough adjustment.
This is the proper way to correct this. But, if you have enough travel in the distributor, you can sometimes simply back the wires aroun one position, and them move the distributor back enough to get correct timing.
Either way works and has essentially the same result.
