61 Tall Distributor Cap With One Window

[Mark S.]

Is there anyone that restores or rebuilds distributor caps? I have the correct tall one with one window; however, it has a stuck pin and the points are somewhat worn. I guess the alternative would be to search for a correct one for my 61 low horse FI. Thanks!

[Duke W.]

Re: 61 Tall Distributor Cap With One Window

I know the '63-'65 FI engines need the "short cap", but not sure if earlier FI engines do. If your FI engine uses the same "tall cap" as millions of GM V8 engines from '57 to '74 then, unless your car is going through judging, just buy a current replacement made by Standard Motor Products.

This tall cap is available in several other major brands including Delco, so buy on price and convenience. The NAPA number, RR165, can be crossed by any parts store to whatever major brand they carry.

The "short cap" is RR166, but I don't know if they are still available. The only other application I know of was a certain Oldmobile engine in the sixties.

Duke

[Mark S.]

Re: 61 Tall Distributor Cap With One Window

Duke: Thank you very much for the response! I always look forward to your responses on the Tech board with your extensive knowledge! I do plan to have the 61 judged; so I am on my way with this masochistic adventure. Sincerely, Mark

[Dave S.]

Re: 61 Tall Distributor Cap With One Window

Duke: Thank you very much for the response! I always look forward to your responses on the Tech board with your extensive knowledge! I do plan to have the 61 judged; so I am on my way with this masochistic adventure. Sincerely, Mark

Mark,
Is that a single point (D-308 patent pending No R), or a dual point (D-324 patent pending No R) or an 891 with dual points with no external adjustment in which case it would be a D-305 with no external markings. All are available with the D-305 the most common.

[Mark S.]

Re: 61 Tall Distributor Cap With One Window

Dave: It is a D-308 patent pending No R.

[John D.]

Re: 61 Tall Distributor Cap With One Window

The generic one window door cap that NAPA sells is great for a fuel car in that it's a low tower cap. RR168. Now comes with a sticker as made out of the USA.
I don't know if they have a high tower cap.
Mark, Glass bead the inside of the cap and get the original door zincad plated. For now that is. John

[Mark S.]

Re: 61 Tall Distributor Cap With One Window

John:

Thank you very much for your helpful feedback! I always look forward to your comments!

Sincerely,

Mark

[John D.]

Re: 61 Tall Distributor Cap With One Window

You are quite welcome Mark.
Here's one for the guys who like to alter a part to make it look correct.
Take a nice D308 no R cap. Have the towers machined etc. down to then use the cap on a '63 to '65 FI car, etc.
Not saying I would do such a thing though. Learned this trick from a farmer in MD.

[Mark S.]

Re: 61 Tall Distributor Cap With One Window

Thanks John! I know there is a lot of creativity out there; and I did have a thought of taking the "R" off of a newer cap. That farmer in MD is a good guy; and we have traded emails. He even purchases an item from me once in a while. I wish you all the best this holiday season; and drink lots of liquids on those hot days. Sincerely, Mark