Jammed Distributor!??!

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Feb 20, 2004 | 08:42 PM

greasymonkey

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From: b.c.,canada

Jammed Distributor!??!

I've been test-running my '86 460(all stock),since working on things,and found the distributor doesn't rotate at all,even though the lock bolt is loose.--I did have it out at one point,and have run the engine since,and moved the timing....but nothing seems to move it except attacking it with a hammer,but I'd rather not do that......any ideas for cause or remedy?????......thanks

Feb 20, 2004 | 10:09 PM

Obtuse1

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From: Oklahoma

I just had the same problem with my 79 460. After trying to finesse it I finally got the hammer out. I managed to get it loose without any damage.
John

Feb 21, 2004 | 12:09 AM

77'F-150Mudder

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From: Boise, ID

I had the distributor stick on an 88' 460 I was working on. A lot of patience and light tapping with a hammer got it out.

Feb 21, 2004 | 12:15 AM

greasymonkey

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From: b.c.,canada

hmmmm...

........any idea the cause?
..........did it jam again???
........doesn't seem like something I'd want to attack with a hammer!--at least not yet.

Feb 21, 2004 | 12:23 AM

c_rossman

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From: Cloud USA

aluminum and iron never mix very well, aluminum oxides and expands in the bore in the block, I would probably use some anti sieze when and if you get it out.

Feb 21, 2004 | 12:28 AM

77'F-150Mudder

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From: Boise, ID

Quote:

Originally posted by c_rossman
aluminum and iron never mix very well, aluminum oxides and expands in the bore in the block, I would probably use some anti sieze when and if you get it out.

My thoughts exactly. After time, crud gets built up in the dist. bore making it tough to get out. Anti-seize helps prevent the corrosion.

And the key word to keep in mind when hammering is LIGHTLY.

Feb 21, 2004 | 12:57 AM

greasymonkey

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From: b.c.,canada

........I dunno...

......I had the thing out two weeks ago....no jams then.......ran the engine,turned the distributor since!! ........i.e.....not gummed up,corroded,etc.-------as fer hammers,-I've only got a ten pounder!--should I let it rip.

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Feb 23, 2004 | 12:15 AM

greasymonkey

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From: b.c.,canada

..........again,jammed when engine at running temp,moves when cools down.--is this normal?-I'm not accustomed to this.

Feb 23, 2004 | 02:21 AM

#10

scroob

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Aluminum expands faster than cast iron when heated.

Either set your timing when the engine is cold, or find a distributor that's a little looser. Or if you know a machinist, have him shave it a tiny bit.

Feb 23, 2004 | 08:57 AM

#11

greasymonkey

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From: b.c.,canada

.......yeh,I guess so.-I didn't notice that when I was driving the bus from arizona to B.C. last may.--I think I'll also try a cooler thermostat....It gets QUITE hot up there,and I've got a 192 there at the moment.