66 BB dist shimming question

[Robert P.]

Looking to find out if the ideal end play for the L36 dist would be in the .007-.010 range like a small block engine
any info would be great
thanks Bob

[Duke W.]

Re: 66 BB dist shimming question

Two to Seven thou is the preferred range, and I like two to three. which can be had by using the .005" inch shims GM used to sell and dressing down a thicker shim a few thou if necessary to achieve 2-3 thou. The 2 to 7 thou spec is in the 1963 Corvette Shop Manual, but since big blocks use essentially the same basic distributor it should be the same.

The thinnest shims I've seen from the aftermarket are .010".

The OE L-36 centrifugal advance is really lazy and installing lighter springs to bring it in sooner should noticeably improve low end torque.

Duke