Re: Distributor shafts

Posted by Marco on May 11, 1998 at 18:27:31

In Reply to: Re: Rebuilding a Distributor
posted by Bob Johnson on May 11, 1998 at 17:11:01

Bob,
I was fortunate enough to use original (unused) Ford parts from the camshaft up on the Roadster. All the joints slipped together with no perceptable play. When I first assembled everything there was NO backlash at the distributor cam. After 40-50 hours of running time there was backlash measuring just under 1/16" at the edge or the rotor contact. It hasn't increased since, but I only have 320 miles on the car. I assume the camshaft gear and drive gear just wore off the sharp edges and are now properly mated.
If the intermediate shaft is worn or a poor replacement, the ends can be slightly pinched to adjust but care must be taken since the smaller side will want to move first which will force an angle at the coupling and cause a bind in service. If using this method be sure to place the intermediate shaft in the bottom of the distributor and turn to be sure it runs true.

E-Mail Comment to Webmaster