69 350 distributor is stuck

[Mike T.]

Just bought a 350 matching number motor that wasn't covered and water got in the cylinders. It rusted and won't turn over.
The seller had taken the heads off, and left the intake and distributor on it. I just found out why.
The distributor is stuck. I can't pull it out.
The engine is seized from the rust, so the cam isn't moving either.
Does the cam have to move a little bit in order for the distributor gear to move to allow the distributor to be lifted out?
Thanks for any help.

[Paul D.]

Re: 69 350 distributor is stuck

No, the cam does not move when removing the distributor. The distributor's shaft, however, will need to move a little as the distributor is removed and the cam and driven gear disengage. More than likely, the distributor housing is stuck in the block but the shaft could also be seized in the housing. I would start by soaking with your favorite rust penetrate around the shaft where it enters the housing. If the heads are already off, try moving the intake side to side a little to try and free the housing from the block. Note that the intake will probably feel stuck due to the end gaskets or sealer at those points. Good luck with a tough situation. Chip.

[Timothy B.]

Re: 69 350 distributor is stuck

Mike,

If it's a matching # engine you have to spend more time taking it apart then putting it back together. Talk to your machine shop and see what they say, there may be a dip that loosens the hold on some of the parts and it may be well worth the effort.