Rotator not turning in distributor

GARY1893

MEMBER
1978 CHEVROLET DELUXE
150,000 MILES

Engine is a 350. Two things I noticed that my rotator in my distributor is not turning when we crank the motor. I pulled the distributor and the shaft and gear are in good shape? What my next step timing chain? Also what the best reference to find the firing order so I can put my spark plugs back?

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,758 POSTS

Hi,

There is a shear pin that holds the gear at the bottom of the distributor. Make sure it is good and the gear and shaft are tightly connected. Next, with the distributor out, look down to the top of the oil pump and make sure it is in a position to receive the distributor. If it isn't, take a long screwdriver and turn it to the correct position. Let me know what you find with that.

As far as firing order, it is 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2. I attached a pic showing the plug wire orientation. Just remember, when you install the distributor, make sure the crankshaft is on TDC and the rotor is pointing to the number one spark plug wire.

Here is a video showing it being done on a Chevy big block, but the same procedure applies:

https://youtu.be/El1H0_6IYxQ

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)