----- Original Message -----
From: "Max Heim" <max_heim@sbcglobal.net>
To: "MG List" <mgs@autox.team.net>
Sent: Tuesday, November 29, 2005 11:38 AM
Subject: Re: distributor
No, it's easy. Well, it would be easy if the bolts were at all accessible.
The trick is NOT to undo the distributor clamping bolt -- this loses your
timing, and repeated overtightening of this bolt is frequently causes a
fatal crack in the distributor base. Instead, undo the two bolts that hold
the clamp to the block. This will require a slim, short-handled wrench, or
some combination of flexible couplings and a socket -- the access is not
very good. But I still find it easier to set the points accurately with the
distributor in a bench vise than with it in place on the engine, with poor
visibility and the likelihood of the small screws disappearing forever.
A further trick is to oval out these two holes with a round file to give
them more latitude for adjustment, so you never have to undo the clamping
bolt. This can be a long-term fix for a just-starting-to-crack distributor
housing.
--
Max Heim
'66 MGB GHN3L76149
If you're near Mountain View, CA,
it's the primer red one with chrome wires
*************************
I use an 11mm or a 7/16 (the 11mm is just a hair tighter fit) crow's foot
with a wobbly extension on the two bolts.
Taking the dizzy out is very simple to do and makes it much easier to work
on it.
Larry Daniels
79 MGB LE
72 Midget
60 Bugeye
"You only need two tools: WD-40 and Duct Tape. If it
doesn't move and should, use the WD-40. If it
shouldn't move and does, use the duct tape."
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