'54 distributor installation.

[Harold W.]

I'm installing my rebuilt '54 distributor, and noticed that there is a shiny surface in the block just below the cam gear. This suggests the bottom of the distributor gear is in contact with the block. The distributor is clamped in place by the vacuum advance assembly. I have the crankshaft lined up on the needle in the bell housing, and have dropped the distributor into place. Is there some special measurement that needs to be held so that there is some clearance below the gear. It's not obvious what else locates the position of the distributor in the bore. Thanks.

[Chris S.]

Re: '54 distributor installation.

Did you rebuild the engine ? Did you replace the oil pump ?
It is advised to install the oil pump loosely - then install the distributor temp
This will align the oil pump
then tighten the oil pump down
I am told - that if they are not aligned there can be alot of side wear load on the oil pump/ distributor and it will seize......

[Harold W.]

Re: '54 distributor installation.

Thanks for the reply. No, the engine has not been rebuilt recently, nor did I replace the oil pump. The original distributor had worn, probably due to the spring in the grease cup finding its way into the tach gears. I had my service replacement distributor installed while I had the original distributor rebuilt, which included a new shaft and tach gear set. I noticed the shiny ring on the block surface around the hole that goes down to the oil pump. I have reinstalled the distributor, got the timing right, and have oil pressure when cranking. So I know the oil pump is engaged. The question is what sets the correct position of the distributor? Should I pull the distributor up slightly when tightening the hold down clamp? When it drops down it seems it must be supported on the bottom of the gear, and so not only will it rub, it has no play for heat expansion, though the clamp really wouldn't hold it if it wanted to come up a little. The distributor shaft is designed with a little axial play, and that would also be gone if the distributor is all the way down. I looked at previous threads, as well as my old repair manual, and nothing is mentioned. I'll look some more, but appreciate your interest in the subject.

[Chris S.]

Re: '54 distributor installation.

Drop the dist in with the vac advance installed - it will drop in and "seat"
then tighten your timing tab
Pretty easy

[Harold W.]

Re: '54 distributor installation.

The distributor was rebuilt, and so the advance unit was removed. There is no step or obvious location on the shaft for the advance unit. I agree it's easy to drop it in, but how far? If it stops in the oil pump, there is no shaft play when you tighten the advance unit. My concern is the gear is contacting the block. Like you say it should be easy. It's a stovebolt Chevy. Maybe I'll pull it up a smidgen while tightening. Thanks for your help.

[Chris S.]

Re: '54 distributor installation.

I assume your putting a new advance unit back on it....
drop the dist in all the way
set your timing and tighten the advance unit and the bolt to the block

[Harold W.]

Re: '54 distributor installation.

I have determined that the original distributor drive gear had contacted the block as there is a shiny ring on both pieces. The service replacement distributor that I had installed for awhile shows no contact on the distributor gear. I'm going to pull the rebuilt distributor up a little bit, maybe a 1/16", to be sure there is no contact with the block. Thanks again for your help.