Distributor installation

[fukkeneh240]

Hi everyone,

 

I searched, but can't find my exact answer.

 

For a 1997 Pathfinder.

 

I just replaced the valve/rocker cover gaskets and removed the distributor to do so. I then decided to do the timing and accessory belts, but did not put the distributor back in after the valve cover gasket replacement. I did the timing belt and put everything back in, but the distributor went in last. I cranked the engine but it now runs rough unless I adjust the distributor all the way to the left (towards the front of the vehicle). I am thinking I am off a tooth when installed the distributor.

 

So my question is, do I remove the distributor, put the engine at TDC, and reinsert the distributor making sure the brush/rotor is at spark plug No. 1?

 

If not, is there another way to align the distributor in the correct position?

 

Thanks.

Edited December 29, 2010 by fukkeneh240

[krmiller07]

That would be the correct way.

[nunya]

Yup, you got the right idea or just guess trying to move the dizzy 1 tooth, but the correct way is your plan you already got.

[sewebster]

There are actually marks on the shaft/gear you are supposed to line up (details in FSM). I think it is supposed to start out so that the rotor is pointing further to the right of the #1 position, because it rotates when you install it and the gears engage.

 

But you really need a timing light at this point... even once you install the distributor on the right tooth, you should rotate it to achieve 15 degrees BTDC (once it's warmed up).

[fukkeneh240]

There are actually marks on the shaft/gear you are supposed to line up (details in FSM). I think it is supposed to start out so that the rotor is pointing further to the right of the #1 position, because it rotates when you install it and the gears engage.

 

But you really need a timing light at this point... even once you install the distributor on the right tooth, you should rotate it to achieve 15 degrees BTDC (once it's warmed up).

 

 

I haven't had the time to work on the car today, but I remember for my 240SX, it stated some where in the FSM about it, but for the life of me I can not find it in the Pathfinder FSM. The only thing for the distributor is on EC-17.

 

Sorry to sound more complicated, but when you say to the right #1, you mean between plugs 1 and 6?

 

 

EDIT: haha.. 5 min after posting this, I found it in the FSM. EM-32.

Edited December 30, 2010 by fukkeneh240

[fukkeneh240]

took a few tries, but it worked. thanks guys.