Removal and Installation

The 2.3L HSC distributor is cam gear driven and does not use centrifugal or vacuum advance. The distributor contains the vane switch stator assembly and the octane rod. The distributor is conventionally mounted on the engine. Replace the distributor assembly if service procedures other than those outlined are required.

Removal

1. Disconnect primary wiring connector from distributor.

Note: Before removing distributor cap, mark position No. 1 wire tower on distributor base for future use.

2. Using a screwdriver, remove distributor cap and position it and attached wire aside so as not to interfere with distributor removal.
3. Remove rotor.
4. Remove TFI-IV harness connector.

Note: Some engines may be equipped with a security-type distributor hold-down bolts. Use Distributor Hold-Down Wrench T85L-12270-A or equivalent to remove distributor.

5. Remove distributor hold-down bolt and clamp. Remove distributor. Do not disturb intermediate driveshaft.

Installation

1. Rotate engine until No. 1 cylinder is on compression stroke.
a. align timing marks for correct initial timing.
b. Rotate distributor shaft so center rod on blade rotor is pointing toward mark previously made on distributor base.
c. Continue rotating slightly so leading edge of vase is centered in vane switch stator assembly.
d. Rotate distributor in block to align leading edge and vane switch stator assembly and verify rotor is pointing at No. 1 cylinder terminal.
e. Install distributor hold-down bolt and clamp. Do not tighten at this time.
2. If vane and vane switch stator cannot be aligned by rotating distributor in block, pull distributor out of block enough to disengage distributor gear and rotate distributor shaft to engage a different distributor gear tooth. Repeat step 1 as necessary.
3. Connect distributor to wiring harness.
4. Install distributor cap, rotor and ignition wires. Check that ignition wires are securely connected to distributor cap and spark plugs. Tighten distributor cap screws to 2.0 - 2.6 Nm. ( 18 - 23 ln lb. ).
5. Set initial timing with a timing light.
6. Tighten distributor hold-down bolt to 23 - 34 Nm. ( 17 - 25 ft lb. ).
7. Check initial timing. Adjust as necessary.