Notices
1968-Present E-Series Van/Cutaway/Chassis Econolines. E150, E250, E350, E450 and E550

new distributor problems

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old Aug 20, 2014 | 05:06 PM
  #1  
dent16's Avatar
dent16
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
new distributor problems

Hello I just purchased a new distributor for my 78 e150 with the 4.9 litter engine. The problem I'm having is I can't take off the Hexagon shaped shaft from the old one to put it on the new one. Is there a special tool tool remove it. It has a little thing that looks like a Ellen wrench would work on it but, when you use the Ellen wrench on it it keeps spinning. Any body's help would appreciated.
 
Reply
Old Aug 20, 2014 | 08:41 PM
  #2  
nsxman2001's Avatar
nsxman2001
New User
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
Pictures would help a lot..
 
Reply
Old Aug 21, 2014 | 12:03 AM
  #3  
DBGrif91's Avatar
DBGrif91
Cargo Master
15 Year Member
Photogenic
Photoriffic
Shutterbug
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 2,541
Likes: 54
From: Des Moines
I'm not that familiar with the late 70's engines, but there shouldn't be anything retaining the oil pump drive shaft (that's the hex shaft) to the distributor. It's possible it's stuck in there after all these years of service.

The hex shaft should only be inserted about 1" or so into the distributor (if even that much), so examine that area of the distributor shaft - do you see any set screws? If not, there's nothing retaining it. Spray some PB Blaster or equivalent around the hex shaft where it meets the distributor - if you can hold the distributor upside down that will help it penetrate.

Wait a few minutes, then take a small hammer and LIGHTLY TAP the hex shaft side to side near the base of the distribtor. It won't take much - all you're looking to do is break it loose. Try tapping 3 to 4 times on opposite sides of the hex shaft and then pulling on it to remove - repeat as needed until it's out.

Only do this if you've confirmed there's no set screws. As nsxman said - pictures will help us help you.
 
Reply
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Blown 331
Big Block V8 - 385 Series (6.1/370, 7.0/429, 7.5/460)
0
Jun 29, 2019 06:12 PM
286merc
Ford Inline Six, 200, 250, 4.9L / 300
1
Aug 24, 2007 03:59 PM
Specter
Bronco II
3
Oct 14, 2003 05:44 PM
Racerdave
1973 - 1979 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
15
Mar 10, 2003 07:42 PM




All times are GMT -5. The time now is 05:31 AM.

story-0
This Hennessey Takes the Expedition Tremor's Off-Roading Capability to the Next Level

Slideshow: The VelociRaptor Expedition gains a lift, upgraded suspension, Brembo brakes, and trail-ready equipment while retaining the stock 440-horsepower EcoBoost V6.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-06-12 11:01:55


VIEW MORE
story-1
Top 10 Fords at 2026 Carlisle Ford Nationals

Slideshow: Top 10 Fords at 2026 Ford Nationals

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-06-09 11:10:08


VIEW MORE
story-2
3 Best / 3 Worst Parts of Modern Ford Ownership

Based on years of owning multiple modern Ford products.

By Brett Foote | 2026-06-09 10:53:36


VIEW MORE
story-3
10 Amazing Upgrades That Solve Common Ford Truck Owner Headaches

SPONSORED: From muddy boots to rain-soaked cargo, these upgrades address some of the most common frustrations Ford truck owners face every day.

By Pouria Savadkouei | 2026-06-08 18:50:34


VIEW MORE
story-4
Every 2026 Ford Engine Explained

Here's everything you need to know about every Ford engine available for the 2026 model year.

By Brett Foote | 2026-06-05 12:58:01


VIEW MORE
story-5
10 Ugly Ford Trucks That We Still Kinda Love

Slideshow: 10 ugly Ford trucks that we still kinda love.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-06-03 09:51:16


VIEW MORE
story-6
10 Things Every Truck Owner NEEDS (2026 Edition)

Slideshow: the best gifts for dads & grads

By Michael S. Palmer | 2026-06-03 15:43:58


VIEW MORE
story-7
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath

Slideshow: Called the Fortress, the 850-horsepower pickup combines Raptor underpinnings with military-inspired features, survival equipment, and a starting price of $285,000.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-06-03 11:38:36


VIEW MORE
story-8
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer

Slideshow: 10 most expensive Ford trucks ever sold on Bring a Trailer.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-05-27 16:24:34


VIEW MORE
story-9
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)

Here's everything that has changed for the latest model year.

By Brett Foote | 2026-05-27 16:17:28


VIEW MORE