Volkswagen: ignition problem, feeler gage, distributor shaft

Question
I have a 1974 VW Bus.  I was driving it in very hot conditions and it stopped running.  I have replaced the coil, condensor and points.  I have noted that the points (the old ones and the new ones) do not open.  What are the possible reasons?  Is the distributor bad?  I assume once I get the points to open, I will need to time the Bus?  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Steve,

I think this is just a small error on your part, again, nothing major.

When you place new points in, abolutely make sure there is a tiny amount of grease (very very small) on the part of the points that rubs on the lobe of the distributor shaft (below where the rotor sits).

Place the little screw in that holds the points down.  Tighten it just a tiny bit.  Turn the engine so the highest point of the lobe is pushing the points open.  Place a feeler gage in there .016 .  Once you have them open at that gap, tighten down the screw.  The points should be OPEN.

When you rotate the engine off the lobe, the points should be closed. (make sure that screw is tight)

You should now have no more problems.

Take Care,

Ron