I'm trying to install a new distributor in the above pickup. The shaft slides into the oil pump ok but the distributor flange wont seat against the engine block ( it hangs out about 1/4 inch ). The gears are engaged. I tried rocking and twisting the dis but with no luck, it just wont drop in. Is there a trick to installing this thing properly?

 

Its hanging up on the oil pump shaft. Try bumbing the key or turning the motor by hand and it should drop right in.

 

That did the trick ( turning the crank ) ... thanks...

 

Double check it to make sure the distributor is in the right tooth.

It will usually drop into the right tooth but sometimes if the engine rotates enough before the distributor drops in and seats against the block, it can be off a tooth.