Man, I am a younger guy working on my first 350 in a 69 Camaro and let me tell you.... people like you are what make the internet a fabulous place!!! Thank you so much sir for taking your hard earned free time to film, edit and educate those around you! Thank you!!
Im 17, ive got a 1983 chevy c20 that was originally a inline 6, this makes the third small block ive put in it, even after having 4 separate motors in my truck everyone has a different way of teaching/ explaining it and having nobody to teach me how to do theses things ive found most videos just waste my time however the in depth explanation you gave all of your viewers is exactly what i needed. Thank you sir, here’s hoping this one wont sling a rod like the last ones
This was one of the best informative videos I have seen. Over the years, I was one of those guys that always had trouble installing the distributor. I would always try to line up the female oil pump drive rod with the distributor and never got it right. After watching your video, I went to my garage and installed the distributor on my 65 Corvette within only a few minutes. There are so many other "how to" videos out there but they tend to ramble on and on. Yours was straight to the point and had a no nonsense approach to the topic. Thanks again.
After struggling with my dist for over an hour, busting knuckles, back, and balls while laying atop my engine, I went inside and found your video. 15 minutes later my truck was running. Many thanks!
I’ve searched countless videos and forums and everything I can and just stumbled on this video and made it beyond simple and explained every question I had about doing this. Really wish I would’ve seen it the first go round
Thank you. You have refreshed my memory and taught me something new. I was one of those people that used the long screw driver to adjust the oil pump shaft, but now I see the better way to do it.
I’m so thankful for your video. Makes complete sense and didn’t take the camera off the area you’re working on, which most folks do, so I could see exactly what you’re talking about and exactly what I need to do. Thank you so much!!
It's been a while also. I've done two s10 v8 swaps. First one was an 88 single cab shortbed. '63 327,5speed. Loved it. Second was a 92 same,350,auto. Always wanted to do a big block. I really enjoy your videos. If I was closer, I'd come help you shoe horn it in. Im just now 46,really would like to do another.
Great video! As an alternate method, you can stop the crankshaft @ 6 to 8 degrees BTDC (# 1 on compression stroke) Now install the distributor, and loosely snug the hold-down clamp bolt. With the ignition coil in place, a spark plug cable connected to the # 1 cap tower, a spark plug in the boot of the # 1 cable, you will power up the ignition triggering unit. Next, you will rotate the distributor against the normal direction of rotation as you look for one spark event. (you may want to do this several times) When you see the spark event, stop and gently further lock the distributor down. Now you are close enough to BASE advance for the initial start-up.
I'm an LS guy . Haven't worked on an old small block in a while, just getting back into it with my new project. Has a 327 in it I'm gonna freshen up. Thanks for the video. Very well explained and right to the point.
I'm a vintage person now and I remember learning this in Autoshop and becoming very good at it. I was the rotor rat in my circle of friends. With modern ignition and such I forgot, thanks for making me feel 18 again! Carry on sir....
THANKS MAN!!! Pulled my 68 Chevelle out of storage after about 12 years. I pulled my distributor in order to "prime" the oil system, and then replaced the distributor thinking: "its pretty close" NOPE! Been trying to start it for a couple weeks, chasing phantom problems. Once we suspected timing was the problem, we found this video, and within an hour we had it running! Thank you very much!
Man I'm really glad I found this! You give a perfect explanation of exactly how to install a distributor. You must be a vocational teacher because you make it so clear, simple, and understandable! I subscribed
Omg I spent about 15-20 minutes for no reason today this is so easy the way you did it all I can say live and learn and one of the best videos I've seen explaining it as simple as it can get.
I have been looking for this video for about 3 months now which is why my truck has not been running all because of a blown head gasket. Thank you so much!
Wow…. I’m 35 and work on mostly new stuff.. But I’ve installed a handful of distributors… Maybe 30-40 times.. Rare enough I’ve always gotta pull up a video just to get a refresher… Have always done it the way my dad did it when i was a kid.. Long screwdriver and try and match up the pump notch.. So glad i stumbled on this video!! How have i never thought to turn the crank once the dizzy is meshed with the cam!! You’re a wizard, sir!!
Ooooooold school mechanic here. In my 37 years of turning wrenches, this is the first time I've seen this....absolutely brilliant! Feel like a complete idiot for doing it all the wrong ways for all those years lol!
@@LostProfitsGarage man I literally got everything back together today and turned the key and it won’t turn over . I’m thinking I have the lifters too tights or I have the distributor clock slightly off 🤦🏾♂️..such a headache because I’m just a gear head not a mechanic . Pray for me bro
@@LostProfitsGarage took it alll the way down to the block . Clean everything and had the heads done with valves . Put everything back together with new gaskets and stuff. Hey lm thinking maybe I have the distributor in out of timing . Or maybe the lash is too tight in the push rods ? Ugh 😣 I just want it to crank over even it runs like crap .
you know i'm in my 50's started working on cars when i was 5 or 6. mostly chevys and this is the 1st time i've ever heard of putting a dist in this way. its always been a pain until now. thanks, Dave
I'm putting a new distributor in my 74 camaro in a few days & I have to say this was a great video to run across all I was doing was trying to look up a review on the distributor I ordered & stumbled upon this gem 💎. Years later & your video is still helpful appreciate it & yes I subbed. Lol
This was the simplest best explanation of what I needed to know I wish I had seen this sooner but now I can fix my problems with my timing easily thank you so much for this video !
I cannot express how much this video helped me. I blew a head gasket on my 350 small block and after about 8 times of trial and error before I watched this video I could never get it re timed. After watching this video she fired right up. Thank you so much man!
This a great how-to. I have used this over and over to share with folks who are inexperienced. 100% the correct way to do it. Having the valve cover off helps to visualize.
All my life I would take the long screwdriver and try to line up the oil pump shaft. Once I saw how simple this method is, I' ve never done it the hard way again. Thx for a great video.
I always just drop it in the pump, and then just move one tooth at a time moving the pump as It clicks one tooth at a time. Especially if engine is in the Car... it's what I came up with, as a kid installing engine in my late Pops work trucks.... I was probably 9 or 10. It works great. I still do it if changing distributor in vehicle not on engine stand . I use this method... I align close with my priming tool, made from a HEI distributor housing. Great teaching Sir... I learned everything by trial error in the 70's.... Great video 😎 Content.
It's been at least 10 years since I installed a Chevy distributor, and I had forgotten the easiest way to do it. I found this before going back to trial and error (mostly error). Thanks!
Your details and way of teaching has made even a novice diy mechanic like myself have the knowledge and confidence too get the job done right the first time. I personally want to Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with me . God bless you and your Family 🤗 👌
im new to all this and working with oldschools this video is the best one ive ever seen... ive sat for hours searching found nothing really good.... i watched the video and did that literally one time with no mistakes... just do as you said .. thank you very much... i can start my 64 wagon now
Absolutely brilliant. First time I've seen this trick. In the past, I messed with small blocks and did it other ways, but this makes so much sense and I'm about to reassmble my upper end. So the timing is perfect (pun intended).
You can put a piece of tape on the manifold after setting the distributor at the exact amount of advance and use the tape to then align the cap. This make for no backfiring at all and the timing is usually extremely close.
One thing I used to do with setting Distributors and engines was if I wanted to timing Mark at 8 degrees I will set the timing at 10 and whether you're at points or electronic distributor you could set the distributor timing so accurate that you just watch the points open or with electronic distributor you set up to where the trigger Wheels are lined up and a little bit of head most of the time I didn't to reset the timing you said everything just degree ahead and it works out perfect thanks same thing with priming carburetors making sure your oils prime before you start it up and then set your distributor in by the way I learned this method from working on VW engines very accurate way to set timing that way if your have your carburetor projected and primed timing set then all you have to do is make sure that you breaking the can breaking the Rings throw light on it double check it and recheck the carb settings besides double-checking oil and water
Thank you for the video. VERY helpful. I just picked up a 68 chevy c10 with a 307 and mallory distributor that was junk and now dropping in a new 1 and this will really help get it running.
You da man, I fought my dist for 45 min before watching your video, tried your method and worked great. Rotated engine and Bingo , it was dead on 0 degrees TDC. Thanks a lot.
Followed your advice, put the vacuum advance towards cylinder 6, the rotor towards cylinder 1, and it fired up the first time. Been messing with this issue for several days, till I found your video. I'm running a 1994 sbc 350, set up as if it were a 1968 sbc 350 because that's what the distributor is.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge ill help me to fix my 82 c10 GOD bless u for helping people bcos thats what u are doing helping people with your knowledge! Thaks
I'm 50 and have always had trouble trying the screwdriver method.im in the middle of changing a tbi to carb walked out dropped distributor in just like in your vid spun crank and plop.. thanks great information
Thank you, I am going to for the first time in my life install a new front seal, water pump, Edelbrock intake, a Holly carb. and an updated distributor and get rid of the old point system, new valve covers and air cleaner. This is all new to me. I appreciate your video. I am even new to finding top dead center. ;)
This is a very good video! Also if anyone is trying to start their truck. If the distributor is still installed, Put cylinder one at TDC COMPRESSION STROKE. Look under the cap and see what the rotor is pointed at. where ever it is pointed at is firing order #1. Took me awhile to realize this. I really didn't want to pull my distributor just to install another pick up coil and shaft. But I got new parts if that ever gets really bad lol
By the way, I'm gonna get back under my hood pull my distributor and change my orientation because of your video here I think I just solved my two month long problem
I watched this video thinking well that’s easy the engine is on a stand. Works the same with a motor in the vehicle. Got to TDC, meshed the gear with rotary button facing #1 and bumped the starter till the distributor dropped into place. Worked like a charm
I want to thank you for this video! I was banging my head against the wall. I am a little thick so had to watch this several times but alas I got it.My balancer did not have any numbers on it anymore and I was not sure where on the the "pointer" was the 0 line. Once I watched the vid for the 8th time I see where you lined it up and BANG! I got spark. The advance adjustment was easy once I was in the oil pump drive. It took me two days but I finally got it... Thank you once again!
Just wanted to say thank you for the video. Had to rebuild my 383 and was a little confused by the timing. This video broke everything down perfectly for me and was easy to follow and understand. You really helped me out there, thanks a ton! Great video!
i have seen a few videos and the one thing i had trouble with was not knowing if the oil rod had to work in the timing of everything else .... you made it much easier to understand with the way you explained things and i would like to say thank you and i look forward to more of your vids
If you want the engine to fire right up without fiddling with the timing, rather than setting TDC on #1 comp at 0* on the timing tab, set your TDC to 10* BTDC then drop the distributor in. If your vacuum advance is hitting the intake and you need more timing you will need to lift the distributor off the cam gear and move the rotor 1 tooth clockwise.
This cat has fired a few engines in his time, yes set a little lead in it, you do remember backfires with Holley carburetor often rupture the power valve
I've been trying to figure out why my distributor is a tooth off for a year now. Whoever put this motor together in my truck did exactly what you just said. Lol Because I can't find any timing marks on the balancer, but it runs too good to be out of timing.
thank you for posting this video, I used it as a following guide today, 5-29-2019 to put a new distributor into my 1975 Chevy Monte Carlo, I followed it exactly as you said, and everything went perfect , the car fired up first try, thanks again
please do another video... this time with a starter motor installed and using a remote starter button.. just the finger or even easier a single spark plug in the #1 cylinder to find the compression stroke.. (removing 2 thru 8 ..) when you turn the engine to seat the distributor on the oil pump shaft.. Stop the damper at the base timing mark you want without going past.. incase there is slack in the timing chain.. remove the distributor rotor and turn the housing to align the tips of the pickup coil with the tips of the reluctor on the distributor shaft.. that is where the distributor will fire the spark plugs.. this allows you to get the timing usually within 2 or 3 degrees of where you want it.. if you do this on an engine that is ready to start on the stand.. you will be amazed.. that one can install the distributor in seconds.. Huge hint.. when removing the distributor.. preset the crank so the rotor is pointing close to the #1 wire position.. take off the rotor.. slowly turn the crank in normal direction of rotation. till the reluctor aligns with the pickup coil . if you note the timing marks on the damper. you know know what the base timing was on the motor.. so you can remove the distributor and work on it or swap it.. and get it back in and reset the timing as described above.. allowing the engine to start without needing to turn the distributor to get it started... 4 stars for the above video..
LOL now here's a guy that has worked on some engines! thanks for the idea for the next video everything you describe here is very close to how I've done it for years and you are right you can get the engine to fire up instantly great tips man I'll plan on doing this the next time I have an engine in my run stand
Excellent advice wayne, I'd only change one thing. Instead of pulling 7 plugs, just pull the #1 plug and fill the hole with a vacuum cap. When the cap pops out you'll know it.
Yeah this is really important I came across a lot of vehicles that had Distributors installed a few degrees out and run like crap most common symptom I found was backfiring up through the carburetor
That's a good way of doing it. I never thought about doing that. I always use a long, flat head screwdriver and look down in there and turn the pump shaft to line up where I want my rotor pointing.
I watch a lot of videos on TH-cam and I have to say u explain things very clearly you’re very good spokesperson and I’m gonna follow your videos all the ones you post thank you for helping me find TDC😊
Man you rock, this video shows you how to truly how to find top dead center. By seeing the intake valve rotate and the exhaust this helps to make sure your not 180. Man I forget how to do this. on my drag race motor. 12 video I look it, and your is the best so far. thanks again.
Thank you for showing us that it was very informative I just bought a new distributor for my 350 this is exactly what I needed to know just some reminders haven't done it in years
Great vid man, really appreciate the way you demonstrated this and the rotating the engine by hand to mesh the oil pump with the distributor is a keen tip; great work and please keep the videos coming!
I watched your video and did exactly what you said and I had it running in five minutes thank you. 32 Ford with a 327 built in 1976. Change from points distributor to HEI
great video and explanation....I put one in last night with the screw driver method and took 3\4 tries. THANKS..... Also great job explaining how to get to Top Dead Center TDC
This is one of those things that's so simple but if somebody is new and doesn't know it can be a big WTF moment! lol Great video !!!! You can be one tooth off and tun out of adjustment because the vacuum advance hits the valve cover. If so just lift it up carefully and feel it over one tooth
That was a good trick. In other words have faith it will drop onto the pump rod, I like this method, I've always been the long screw driver guy. This was an enlighten light bulb goes of mechanical moment ! Thank You
I recently installed a dist. on my Ford 460 cu. in. 1970 F-250. The way I got TDC is "before" I took out the old distributor I manually turned the engine (socket & breaker bar) while watching the rotor make its round over to # 1 cylinder terminal on the cap. Then I knew I was close to TDC. Ford rods from dist. to oil pump are 5 sided so...during installation I played around with it a little bit and it fell in. If it didn't fall in I would have manually rotated the engine until it did...like you showed. Wherever the rotor came to rest is where the spark plug wire for # 1 would be placed. Some people make the process a lot more difficult than it really is. If things don't turn out with distributor rotating clearance (timing) you can move each spark plug wire over 1 or 2 terminals on the cap.
Excellent job of teaching. Very clear and a great show me how video. Only thing I am still concerned with is the rotor was pointing to the other side but if I place the distributor cap on and the wire for Number one Cylinder is on the left side of the 350 engine is it really pointing in right direction with the rotor to the left. That seems to be a long distance to turn the base to. The video ended at that point so I was unsure but as you stated about old school. I am 73 and of the old school and was taught to use a screw driver to line up the oil pump rod so the rotor will still be facing number one cylinder. Anyway I subscribed and will be watching more. Thanks. Good Job.
i was just watching this video for the hell of it now i found out i been doing it the hard way all this time with the crew driver thanks im try this next time
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Man, I am a younger guy working on my first 350 in a 69 Camaro and let me tell you.... people like you are what make the internet a fabulous place!!! Thank you so much sir for taking your hard earned free time to film, edit and educate those around you! Thank you!!
Your welcome
@@Myvintageiron7512 on. O. O okooo p90x bnlnnn
"
I agree first time
Same bud I just turned 21 I’m getting started on my 350 rocket in my 87 regal
Im 17, ive got a 1983 chevy c20 that was originally a inline 6, this makes the third small block ive put in it, even after having 4 separate motors in my truck everyone has a different way of teaching/ explaining it and having nobody to teach me how to do theses things ive found most videos just waste my time however the in depth explanation you gave all of your viewers is exactly what i needed. Thank you sir, here’s hoping this one wont sling a rod like the last ones
I’ve watched thousands of how to vids. This is the best. No game show host theatrics, just the instructions.
I’ve seen at least 25 videos of installing a distributor. This is The best distributor video hands down.
This was one of the best informative videos I have seen. Over the years, I was one of those guys that always had trouble installing the distributor. I would always try to line up the female oil pump drive rod with the distributor and never got it right. After watching your video, I went to my garage and installed the distributor on my 65 Corvette within only a few minutes. There are so many other "how to" videos out there but they tend to ramble on and on. Yours was straight to the point and had a no nonsense approach to the topic. Thanks again.
After struggling with my dist for over an hour, busting knuckles, back, and balls while laying atop my engine, I went inside and found your video. 15 minutes later my truck was running. Many thanks!
No Problem Guys like you are the very reason I do all of these
Myvintageiron7512 what a reply 😂😂🤘🏻
I smashed my fender
🎉
This is without a doubt the simplest anyone has made one of these videos thank you so much
You, sir, are a blessing to men like me who didn't have good fathers.
Glad I could help
Cringe
This deserves a high rating for success he did so well explaining.thankyou
I’ve searched countless videos and forums and everything I can and just stumbled on this video and made it beyond simple and explained every question I had about doing this. Really wish I would’ve seen it the first go round
Thank you. You have refreshed my memory and taught me something new. I was one of those people that used the long screw driver to adjust the oil pump shaft, but now I see the better way to do it.
I’m so thankful for your video. Makes complete sense and didn’t take the camera off the area you’re working on, which most folks do, so I could see exactly what you’re talking about and exactly what I need to do. Thank you so much!!
This is the simplest way I have seen anyone explain on how to install a distributor on a Chevy engine thank you so much
for posting this video
There are more ways than you will ever know
I cannot express how happy I am for finding your video! This video has helped me get my truck running and for that I'm very grateful!
I;m glad I could help
Installing a new coil on a Chevy small block
It's been a while also. I've done two s10 v8 swaps. First one was an 88 single cab shortbed. '63 327,5speed. Loved it. Second was a 92 same,350,auto. Always wanted to do a big block. I really enjoy your videos. If I was closer, I'd come help you shoe horn it in. Im just now 46,really would like to do another.
@@Myvintageiron7512 added MEJODYSKEETERS
@@Myvintageiron7512 18436572 1357. 2468. EIIE EIIE B2 x Stroke x #cyl x.7854 =C.I.D. Big whoop!😁
Great video!
As an alternate method, you can stop the crankshaft @ 6 to 8 degrees BTDC (# 1 on compression stroke)
Now install the distributor, and loosely snug the hold-down clamp bolt.
With the ignition coil in place, a spark plug cable connected to the # 1 cap tower, a spark plug in the boot of the # 1 cable, you will power up the ignition triggering unit.
Next, you will rotate the distributor against the normal direction of rotation as you look for one spark event. (you may want to do this several times)
When you see the spark event, stop and gently further lock the distributor down.
Now you are close enough to BASE advance for the initial start-up.
Don’t forget to put the gasket on the distributor! Good video of a really simple process!
I'm an LS guy . Haven't worked on an old small block in a while, just getting back into it with my new project. Has a 327 in it I'm gonna freshen up. Thanks for the video. Very well explained and right to the point.
I have always over complicated distributor timing in my head and you my friend have cleared the fog!
I'm a vintage person now and I remember learning this in Autoshop and becoming very good at it. I was the rotor rat in my circle of friends. With modern ignition and such I forgot, thanks for making me feel 18 again! Carry on sir....
THANKS MAN!!! Pulled my 68 Chevelle out of storage after about 12 years. I pulled my distributor in order to "prime" the oil system, and then replaced the distributor thinking: "its pretty close" NOPE! Been trying to start it for a couple weeks, chasing phantom problems. Once we suspected timing was the problem, we found this video, and within an hour we had it running! Thank you very much!
Man I'm really glad I found this! You give a perfect explanation of exactly how to install a distributor. You must be a vocational teacher because you make it so clear, simple, and understandable! I subscribed
Glad it helped!
Omg I spent about 15-20 minutes for no reason today this is so easy the way you did it all I can say live and learn and one of the best videos I've seen explaining it as simple as it can get.
My guy this has been the 10th time installing this distributor and I'm finally able to proceed to spark plug wires. My back thanks you 🧘
After All These Years & You Are Still Helping Ppl With This Video! Thank you 😎
I have been looking for this video for about 3 months now which is why my truck has not been running all because of a blown head gasket. Thank you so much!
Wow…. I’m 35 and work on mostly new stuff.. But I’ve installed a handful of distributors… Maybe 30-40 times.. Rare enough I’ve always gotta pull up a video just to get a refresher…
Have always done it the way my dad did it when i was a kid.. Long screwdriver and try and match up the pump notch..
So glad i stumbled on this video!!
How have i never thought to turn the crank once the dizzy is meshed with the cam!!
You’re a wizard, sir!!
thx
Ooooooold school mechanic here. In my 37 years of turning wrenches, this is the first time I've seen this....absolutely brilliant! Feel like a complete idiot for doing it all the wrong ways for all those years lol!
How’d you do it then ? Screwdriver ?
@@klizzyykicks1712 Yup, long flathead most of the time. Also used a modified distributor that was our oil pump priming tool.
@@LostProfitsGarage man I literally got everything back together today and turned the key and it won’t turn over . I’m thinking I have the lifters too tights or I have the distributor clock slightly off 🤦🏾♂️..such a headache because I’m just a gear head not a mechanic . Pray for me bro
@@klizzyykicks1712 What have you done with the engine? Complete rebuild, or partial overhaul?
@@LostProfitsGarage took it alll the way down to the block . Clean everything and had the heads done with valves . Put everything back together with new gaskets and stuff. Hey lm thinking maybe I have the distributor in out of timing . Or maybe the lash is too tight in the push rods ? Ugh 😣 I just want it to crank over even it runs like crap .
you know i'm in my 50's started working on cars when i was 5 or 6. mostly chevys and this is the 1st time i've ever heard of putting a dist in this way. its always been a pain until now. thanks, Dave
I'm putting a new distributor in my 74 camaro in a few days & I have to say this was a great video to run across all I was doing was trying to look up a review on the distributor I ordered & stumbled upon this gem 💎. Years later & your video is still helpful appreciate it & yes I subbed. Lol
This was the simplest best explanation of what I needed to know I wish I had seen this sooner but now I can fix my problems with my timing easily thank you so much for this video !
I cannot express how much this video helped me. I blew a head gasket on my 350 small block and after about 8 times of trial and error before I watched this video I could never get it re timed. After watching this video she fired right up. Thank you so much man!
Glad it helped!!
This a great how-to. I have used this over and over to share with folks who are inexperienced. 100% the correct way to do it. Having the valve cover off helps to visualize.
All my life I would take the long screwdriver and try to line up the oil pump shaft. Once I saw how simple this method is, I' ve never done it the hard way again. Thx for a great video.
I always just drop it in the pump, and then just move one tooth at a time moving the pump as It clicks one tooth at a time. Especially if engine is in the Car... it's what I came up with, as a kid installing engine in my late Pops work trucks.... I was probably 9 or 10. It works great. I still do it if changing distributor in vehicle not on engine stand . I use this method... I align close with my priming tool, made from a HEI distributor housing. Great teaching Sir... I learned everything by trial error in the 70's.... Great video 😎 Content.
Thanks Myron!! You have answered one of my biggest questions on aligning a distributor with the oil pump shaft. Finally!!!
It's been at least 10 years since I installed a Chevy distributor, and I had forgotten the easiest way to do it. I found this before going back to trial and error (mostly error). Thanks!
Your details and way of teaching has made even a novice diy mechanic like myself have the knowledge and confidence too get the job done right the first time. I personally want to Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with me .
God bless you and your Family 🤗 👌
Your welcome
There are lots of vids on how to do this. This is the best one I've seen. Once the distributor is timed to the cam, the rest follows. Simple.
glad it helped
Your rotating the engine method while the distributor is already to get it lined up with the pump saved me SOOO much time thank you 😍
Glad it helped
im new to all this and working with oldschools this video is the best one ive ever seen... ive sat for hours searching found nothing really good.... i watched the video and did that literally one time with no mistakes... just do as you said .. thank you very much... i can start my 64 wagon now
Glad it helped
Thank you for this “crystal clear” way to get this job done. I got it done with confidence, all this after a week of getting it all wrong.
Absolutely brilliant. First time I've seen this trick. In the past, I messed with small blocks and did it other ways, but this makes so much sense and I'm about to reassmble my upper end. So the timing is perfect (pun intended).
You can put a piece of tape on the manifold after setting the distributor at the exact amount of advance and use the tape to then align the cap.
This make for no backfiring at all and the timing is usually extremely close.
One thing I used to do with setting Distributors and engines was if I wanted to timing Mark at 8 degrees I will set the timing at 10 and whether you're at points or electronic distributor you could set the distributor timing so accurate that you just watch the points open or with electronic distributor you set up to where the trigger Wheels are lined up and a little bit of head most of the time I didn't to reset the timing you said everything just degree ahead and it works out perfect thanks same thing with priming carburetors making sure your oils prime before you start it up and then set your distributor in by the way I learned this method from working on VW engines very accurate way to set timing that way if your have your carburetor projected and primed timing set then all you have to do is make sure that you breaking the can breaking the Rings throw light on it double check it and recheck the carb settings besides double-checking oil and water
Blew my mind it’s that simple. I’m doing my first one on my own in my yard and was overthinking this the whole time. Glade I came across this video
Thank you for the video. VERY helpful. I just picked up a 68 chevy c10 with a 307 and mallory distributor that was junk and now dropping in a new 1 and this will really help get it running.
Excellent job on your explanation on why I needed to turn the motor once the distributor gear is matched with the Cam gear. I never knew that.
You da man, I fought my dist for 45 min before watching your video, tried your method and worked great. Rotated engine and Bingo , it was dead on 0 degrees TDC. Thanks a lot.
Just like the others, what a simpler way, no more struggling. Excellent explanation!
Followed your advice, put the vacuum advance towards cylinder 6, the rotor towards cylinder 1, and it fired up the first time. Been messing with this issue for several days, till I found your video.
I'm running a 1994 sbc 350, set up as if it were a 1968 sbc 350 because that's what the distributor is.
Glad it helped
Thanks for sharing your knowledge ill help me to fix my 82 c10 GOD bless u for helping people bcos thats what u are doing helping people with your knowledge! Thaks
Thank you for the KISS method of Installing a distributor!!!!!!!
I'm 50 and have always had trouble trying the screwdriver method.im in the middle of changing a tbi to carb walked out dropped distributor in just like in your vid spun crank and plop.. thanks great information
Thank you, I am going to for the first time in my life install a new front seal, water pump, Edelbrock intake, a Holly carb. and an updated distributor and get rid of the old point system, new valve covers and air cleaner. This is all new to me. I appreciate your video. I am even new to finding top dead center. ;)
This is a very good video! Also if anyone is trying to start their truck. If the distributor is still installed, Put cylinder one at TDC COMPRESSION STROKE. Look under the cap and see what the rotor is pointed at. where ever it is pointed at is firing order #1. Took me awhile to realize this. I really didn't want to pull my distributor just to install another pick up coil and shaft. But I got new parts if that ever gets really bad lol
By the way, I'm gonna get back under my hood pull my distributor and change my orientation because of your video here I think I just solved my two month long problem
I watched this video thinking well that’s easy the engine is on a stand. Works the same with a motor in the vehicle. Got to TDC, meshed the gear with rotary button facing #1 and bumped the starter till the distributor dropped into place. Worked like a charm
You have it right- I used the screwdriver method several times but this method makes it easy and one shot --done.
Thanks. Forgot to rotate. Cursed for hours. Lost purse. Had hissy fit. Watched video. Chevy alive again for now
I want to thank you for this video! I was banging my head against the wall. I am a little thick so had to watch this several times but alas I got it.My balancer did not have any numbers on it anymore and I was not sure where on the the "pointer" was the 0 line. Once I watched the vid for the 8th time I see where you lined it up and BANG! I got spark. The advance adjustment was easy once I was in the oil pump drive. It took me two days but I finally got it... Thank you once again!
Yup, sometimes ya gotta watch a video more than once. No shame in that.
Just wanted to say thank you for the video. Had to rebuild my 383 and was a little confused by the timing. This video broke everything down perfectly for me and was easy to follow and understand. You really helped me out there, thanks a ton! Great video!
i have seen a few videos and the one thing i had trouble with was not knowing if the oil rod had to work in the timing of everything else .... you made it much easier to understand with the way you explained things and i would like to say thank you and i look forward to more of your vids
your welcome
If you want the engine to fire right up without fiddling with the timing, rather than setting TDC on #1 comp at 0* on the timing tab, set your TDC to 10* BTDC then drop the distributor in. If your vacuum advance is hitting the intake and you need more timing you will need to lift the distributor off the cam gear and move the rotor 1 tooth clockwise.
This cat has fired a few engines in his time, yes set a little lead in it, you do remember backfires with Holley carburetor often rupture the power valve
I've been trying to figure out why my distributor is a tooth off for a year now. Whoever put this motor together in my truck did exactly what you just said. Lol Because I can't find any timing marks on the balancer, but it runs too good to be out of timing.
thank you for posting this video, I used it as a following guide today, 5-29-2019 to put a new distributor into my 1975 Chevy Monte Carlo, I followed it exactly as you said, and everything went perfect , the car fired up first try, thanks again
About to do my 81 MC today bro, just dropped a 350 vortec in and going from there. #MC aka Master of Ceremonies!!!
please do another video... this time with a starter motor installed and using a remote starter button.. just the finger or even easier a single spark plug in the #1 cylinder to find the compression stroke.. (removing 2 thru 8 ..) when you turn the engine to seat the distributor on the oil pump shaft.. Stop the damper at the base timing mark you want without going past.. incase there is slack in the timing chain.. remove the distributor rotor and turn the housing to align the tips of the pickup coil with the tips of the reluctor on the distributor shaft.. that is where the distributor will fire the spark plugs.. this allows you to get the timing usually within 2 or 3 degrees of where you want it.. if you do this on an engine that is ready to start on the stand.. you will be amazed.. that one can install the distributor in seconds..
Huge hint.. when removing the distributor.. preset the crank so the rotor is pointing close to the #1 wire position.. take off the rotor.. slowly turn the crank in normal direction of rotation. till the reluctor aligns with the pickup coil . if you note the timing marks on the damper. you know know what the base timing was on the motor.. so you can remove the distributor and work on it or swap it.. and get it back in and reset the timing as described above.. allowing the engine to start without needing to turn the distributor to get it started... 4 stars for the above video..
LOL now here's a guy that has worked on some engines! thanks for the idea for the next video everything you describe here is very close to how I've done it for years and you are right you can get the engine to fire up instantly great tips man I'll plan on doing this the next time I have an engine in my run stand
Excellent advice wayne, I'd only change one thing. Instead of pulling 7 plugs, just pull the #1 plug and fill the hole with a vacuum cap. When the cap pops out you'll know it.
Yeah this is really important I came across a lot of vehicles that had Distributors installed a few degrees out and run like crap most common symptom I found was backfiring up through the carburetor
This is the BEST video ive seen on TH-cam for distributor install. Thanks
Thanks
I watched this video then installed my distributor in my 350 Chevrolet for the first time it fired right up thank you very much.
That's a good way of doing it. I never thought about doing that. I always use a long, flat head screwdriver and look down in there and turn the pump shaft to line up where I want my rotor pointing.
I watch a lot of videos on TH-cam and I have to say u explain things very clearly you’re very good spokesperson and I’m gonna follow your videos all the ones you post
thank you for helping me find TDC😊
Man you rock, this video shows you how to truly how to find top dead center. By seeing the intake valve rotate and the exhaust this helps to make sure your not 180. Man I forget how to do this. on my drag race motor. 12 video I look it, and your is the best so far. thanks again.
From age 16 to 35, all i worked on was the dodge 440 & 1950’s Hemi. Here I am in my 40’s, learning about Chevy’s... god, they’re fun! 😎👍
Thank you.. i will be trying this shortly. I came here as my dizzy is in but not dropping down. thank you very much!
Just bought a 1970 Chevy CST C/10 and this video is spot on for what I need to do. Thanks!
Very Good Video Easy to understand. Even the most novice of repair person should be able to install the Distributor. Thanks.
Thank you for showing us that it was very informative I just bought a new distributor for my 350 this is exactly what I needed to know just some reminders haven't done it in years
Great vid man, really appreciate the way you demonstrated this and the rotating the engine by hand to mesh the oil pump with the distributor is a keen tip; great work and please keep the videos coming!
Much like all the other comments, I'm very glad to have put this on here. I always like to see the other ways things can be done and made easier.
I watched your video and did exactly what you said and I had it running in five minutes thank you. 32 Ford with a 327 built in 1976. Change from points distributor to HEI
Nice!!
You are the man from start to finish…appreciate it boss👍👍
the Best instruction video on setting distributor , Thank you , much appreciated
great video and explanation....I put one in last night with the screw driver method and took 3\4 tries. THANKS..... Also great job explaining how to get to Top Dead Center TDC
That was so simple and easy. No more using a long screwdriver to adjust for me!! Thank you sir.
Glad it helped
That's the best tutorial for dropping distributor to the engine.
This is one of those things that's so simple but if somebody is new and doesn't know it can be a big WTF moment! lol Great video !!!! You can be one tooth off and tun out of adjustment because the vacuum advance hits the valve cover. If so just lift it up carefully and feel it over one tooth
That was a good trick. In other words have faith it will drop onto the pump rod, I like this method, I've always been the long screw driver guy.
This was an enlighten light bulb goes of mechanical moment ! Thank You
I am 73 years old and been tinkering with cars forever and have NEVER seen this method. How much time I have wasted. Thanks.
I recently installed a dist. on my Ford 460 cu. in. 1970 F-250. The way I got TDC is "before" I took out the old distributor I manually turned the engine (socket & breaker bar) while watching the rotor make its round over to # 1 cylinder terminal on the cap. Then I knew I was close to TDC. Ford rods from dist. to oil pump are 5 sided so...during installation I played around with it a little bit and it fell in. If it didn't fall in I would have manually rotated the engine until it did...like you showed. Wherever the rotor came to rest is where the spark plug wire for # 1 would be placed. Some people make the process a lot more difficult than it really is. If things don't turn out with distributor rotating clearance (timing) you can move each spark plug wire over 1 or 2 terminals on the cap.
Thanks? I never thought of putting it in that way, It fired right up after I got it to fall in!!! Far easier than using a screw driver!!
An here I am sitting here waiting on Monday to have someone put a new distributer in my 94 GMC 350 TBI... Thanks man.
the best video and explanation I've found when looking up this issue. great work
Thank you that oil pump line up was driving nuts. Now that I know this adjustment are easy
This is the best video ever.i always pay some one to set my timing. Not any more. Thank you!
Excellent job of teaching. Very clear and a great show me how video. Only thing I am still concerned with is the rotor was pointing to the other side but if I place the distributor cap on and the wire for Number one Cylinder is on the left side of the 350 engine is it really pointing in right direction with the rotor to the left. That seems to be a long distance to turn the base to. The video ended at that point so I was unsure but as you stated about old school. I am 73 and of the old school and was taught to use a screw driver to line up the oil pump rod so the rotor will still be facing number one cylinder. Anyway I subscribed and will be watching more. Thanks. Good Job.
I feel like a newb now for not realizing this. I'm bad to overcomplicate. Thanks for saving time on my next project (or random maintenance,) cheers!
This video just saved me a bunch of time! I’m reinstalling the distributor in my 1967 Buick GS340 and this video was great! Thanks!!!
Glad it helped!
Ty sir for the directions told easily and to the point without complicating it.your a god send
i was just watching this video for the hell of it now i found out i been doing it the hard way all this time with the crew driver thanks im try this next time
Best video Ive found so far for the SBC. Really helped me out. Thanks!
Great video, you are a great man for taking the time to help people like me that struggle with stuff like this. A plus from Bob Silver!