Installing distributor lower shaft
 

So last night I bemoaned that the distributor I pulled out to rebuild has a bad one-piece shaft, and I will reinstall a new two-piece shaft. I know the engagement on the lower end of the lower shaft is eccentric where it goes into the oil pump. Is there any particular trick to installing a distributor lower shaft into an intact engine? My thoughts were to lower it down on a magnet stick, then once it's all the way down pull the magnet and put down a screwdriver to turn it until it engages into the oil pump shaft. Then install the distributor with upper shaft the "usual" way. Does that seem about right? I can't remember if there is a solid path for the lower shaft through the valve area or if it''s open and I should plan to possibly pull the valve cover if I can't get the shaft lined up with the path to the oil pump.

Thanks, all.

JayJay

Re: Installing distributor lower shaft
 

I have taken a large screw driver, put some grease on it, that put end of screw driver in slot of shaft. Than I just put it in place lowering and turning until it joins the lower oil pump connection.

Has always worked for me. Any grease dissolves from engine heat.

Enjoy.

Re: Installing distributor lower shaft
 

I sighted the driver with a flash light, then dropped in the short shaft and engaged it with a flat blade screwdriver.
If the head has been shaved then seating the distributor may require several length adjustments .

Re: Installing distributor lower shaft
 

Yep drop it in, turn it with a screw driver until it drops into place.
With a new shaft you might have to make a few light passes with a flat file to open the slot up just a tad. Have had to do that a few times.