Changing vacuum advance canister

[John F.]

Do you need to pull the distributor to replace the vacuum can? The plate that the points sit on blocks removing the screw holding the vacuum can in place.

[Edward J.]

Re: Changing vacuum advance canister

John, I have done it before without removing the Dist. if you have a vacuum pump and the old can works, draw a vacuum this will move the plate some.

[John F.]

Re: Changing vacuum advance canister

Both hold down screws are blocked and I don't have a pump.

[Edward J.]

Re: Changing vacuum advance canister

try using a flat blade screw driver and use one of the vac. can screws to rotate the plate. the spring in the can sometime be strong.i believe that you can find a couple of places to use to rotate. other wise remove the dist. as this is really the correct way.

[John L.]

Re: Changing vacuum advance canister

Yes it can be done - one additional comment - use a magnetic screw driver - you can manually rotate the lever/plate but much easier with vacuum source of some kind.

[Jim D.]

Re: Changing vacuum advance canister

Why not simply remove the distributor? It's easier than bending over the fender and you can then shim the end play if it hasn't already been done.

[John F.]

Re: Changing vacuum advance canister

Thank you Ed. I got it in and only dropped one screw close by.