The Geo Tracker models have contained both distributor and distributorless systems in the 1990 to 1997 model years. If you have a 4-cylinder 1.6L engine, you likely have a distributor. If you like to do your own work, here's how to replace the distributor in your Tracker. You won't need special tools.
Locate the distributor on the engine block; just follow the spark plug wires to the top of the distributor cap. Unhook the negative battery cable at the battery.
Trace each spark plug wire to the distributor cap and number each "tower" it plugs into--1 for the No. 1 cylinder, so you can replace the spark plug wires easily. Grip the end of the plug wire to remove; don't bend or twist the wire or you may damage it.
Put a label on and disconnect all wires and vacuum hoses from the distributor. Mark the No. 1 cylinder terminal tower to match it to the distributor housing for re-installation later. Then unscrew the screws on the distributor cap.
Use a long-handled ratchet (breaker bar) to rotate the crankshaft bolt clockwise until the distributor rotor points to the No. 1 cylinder mark on the distributor housing. The crankshaft bolt will be in the center of a pulley near the bottom of the engine block. Matchmark the distributor housing position to the engine for positioning during re-installation.
Unbolt the distributor hold-down bolt with a wrench and remove the distributor by carefully sliding it up and out of the engine. Do not crank the engine (rotate the crankshaft) with the distributor removed.
Insert the new Tracker distributor in the engine, lining up the matchmarks on the distributor housing, engine and rotor. The part number from Parts Train is 84171N, but different manufacturers use different numbers. Give your vehicle model, year and engine size when ordering.
Replace the hold-down bolt and tighten until secure, then install the distributor cap. Reconnect all wiring and vacuum hoses to the distributor and connect the negative battery cable.
