MG Car Repair: Stuck oil pump and distributor, slide hammer, knowledgeable answers

Question
Hi Howard,

I own a 1968 MGB.  The engine is currently pulled, and is at the machine shop.  It is an 18 GF, high compression version.  Besides knowing the engine is going to require an over bore and the crankshaft be reground, the machine shop guy is telling me the oil pump and distributor both are stuck, and giving them trouble to remove.  Might you have any hints on how to deal with this?

Again, thank you in advance for your prompt and knowledgeable answers.

Regards,
Dan


Answer
Hi Dan,
It is not uncommon for the distributor to corrode to the sleeve it is in and for the sleeve to rust to the block. The distributor can usually be rotated back and forth to free up enough to get it out. I have had many of the sleeves rusted solid. I got most out by heating and cooling it then with the use of a slide hammer with an internal grip attachment like used to pull bearing races. Don't try to pry under the edge of the flange of the sleeve as it is a cast piece and will break the flange off.
Howard