Used Distributor...??
11-26-2008, 07:36 PM
#1
Racer
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Location: El Cajon CA.
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Used Distributor...??
65' vert 327/365. Bought a used tach drive distributor from a Corvette Shop here. It already had Pertronix in it. QUESTION- can a distributor be "bad"?? I figure this thing was laying in his used parts bin for a reason. It was obviously removed from another Corvette for a reason....The guy at the shop said it was ready to go and I would just have to drop it in... Everything else on the new motor seems dialed in... carb, cooling sys, valve lash etc......but the motor acts as if it is not unleashing its full potential.... Timing has been dialed in ( as mentioned in my previous posts) so I'm just wondering if the distributor could still be the culprit? I re-read this thing and I sound like I'm rambling again.....sorry guys. 
11-26-2008, 07:39 PM
#2
Tech Contributor
The advance weights and springs can have an effect on how it performs.
Additionally - what Pertronix unit is it, and how do you have it wire? What coil do you have? My diagram below should help you see what is preferred for the Pertronix II module.
Additionally - what Pertronix unit is it, and how do you have it wire? What coil do you have? My diagram below should help you see what is preferred for the Pertronix II module.
11-26-2008, 07:44 PM
#3
Racer
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Thanks for the quik reply Jeff... Yes, I wired it as you showed in a previous post on Pertonix (thank you). I'm using a stock coil. I'm not sure what type of Pertronix it is...it looks like a magnetic loop if I remember from when it was out of the car...
Last edited by Kurt G.; 11-26-2008 at 07:46 PM. Reason: left out info
11-26-2008, 07:52 PM
#4
Tech Contributor
The only reason I asked about the Pertronix model, was because I've only worked with the Pertronix Ignitor II, and that is all my wiring diagram is intended to represent. I'm not sure how the Ignitor I gets wired.
The one in my 65 is the magnetic ring like you describe, and it's an Ignitor II.
I am NOT a distributor guru, but I'd start by removing the rotor, and checking that the advance weights are operating smoothly. Also confirm your vacuum advance is working properly and has the correct operating parameters for your engine.
Each vacuum advance has unique characteristics for when it starts to come in (how many inches of vacuum) and when it's fully in.
BarryK, Lars, JohnZ, Plasticman, DZAuto, etc. etc. etc. are well versed in the science of that stuff - me I just know how to use PowerPoint to make a pretty diagram.
11-26-2008, 08:21 PM
#5
Melting Slicks
Yes, the distributor could be a problem.
1. When you timed it, did the timing mark jump around? Or, was it steady? If it jumped around, the distributor's clearances could be excessive. Could be time for a rebuild. Which could be why it was removed from the other vehicle.
2. Make sure you've wired it correctly as shown in the diagram posted.
3. Most likely cause of sluggish performance is the advance curve. Look in the archives for articles on timing and advance curve by John Hinckley, Lars, Duke, et al. Or send it somebody with a Sun machine.
1. When you timed it, did the timing mark jump around? Or, was it steady? If it jumped around, the distributor's clearances could be excessive. Could be time for a rebuild. Which could be why it was removed from the other vehicle.
2. Make sure you've wired it correctly as shown in the diagram posted.
3. Most likely cause of sluggish performance is the advance curve. Look in the archives for articles on timing and advance curve by John Hinckley, Lars, Duke, et al. Or send it somebody with a Sun machine.
I'll get this @#&*@#+ thing figured out if it kills me....