[QUOTE=carguy94;14645824]

do you have four bolts holding it on are you talking about the coil or the module. does it look like this[/QUOTE

Sorry for the late reply, work and stuff. I had a few beers that night and meant to type "ignition control module" but I've discovered that you need to turn the distributor to get to that aft bolt. I marked it with a paint pen for reference when I install the new one. A deep well7/32 worked for the forward one. But while trying to turn the distributor in order to get to that aft bolt we encountered an issue. Its really stiff, I sprayed some liquid wrench on it hoping to loosen it up but its still pretty tight. I don't want to go banging on it and possibly create an even bigger issue. Is this common for it to be so tight? Additionally I've read that there is a special tool just for that job. However it looks physically impossible to even get to it with that tool due another part of the engine in the way.

Forgot to mention: I did take the hold down bolt off.

Thanks again for all your help guys.

Rick

 

it sounds like the distributor is just rusted on or the gears are stuck. let the oil soak and then try working it back and forth try to avoid pliers or pry bars or heat. can you see any visible rust. try not to use to much oil so it will not seep down into the engine but if its stuck its stuck. why are you taking out the TFI. and try and bump the engine over not the best idea but try not to wack at it.

 

What it is a "O" ring that sticks them in place. As soon as you break the "O" ring loose it will come out. It can be a bear to get out or turn.

 

Took a break and back at it-

after replacing the TFI ive had no change in the current issue other than the fact the fuel injectors dont stay on like they did. i removed the #1 and #8 plug to check for spark and i got nothing on either one when i grounded them out and turned the key. i tested the ignition control module per the haynes manual and the connectors ohms checked good per the book. but when i removed the actual plug the to ignition control module and tried cranking the engine i could hear a very faint spark. it wasn't a constant tick like it should be. almost like it was too weak to send what little power it was getting to the distributor.

ive come to the conclusion that im going to swap out the distributor with a rebuilt one and also replace the control module itself.

ordering parts from rock auto so they should be here in about a week. just enough time for me to slap than in and turn around and have to leave again for six weeks. if this doesn't do it to the shop it goes. with my head held low the entire time.