Locating dimple on timing gear

[aermotor]

Originally Posted by Forddan

I had in mind that once the distributor was timed you can take it out and insert it again any time later (months??) and will keep the timing. Now I know this is incorrect.

This is not incorrect. The backup distributor if set up properly can run forever as though it were new. Human hands are the only thing that can change a mechanical junction (which timing is) whether dist. #1, #2 or even #12 back up.
Pull any of the 12 back up distributors turn the engine as many times as you want and it will still be in time when you drop any of the distributors back in.
Katy is correct if we talk about other worn parts.

John

[30 Closed Cab PU]

Originally Posted by aermotor

This is not incorrect. The backup distributor if set up properly can run forever as though it were new. Human hands are the only thing that can change a mechanical junction (which timing is) whether dist. #1, #2 or even #12 back up.
Pull any of the 12 back up distributors turn the engine as many times as you want and it will still be in time when you drop any of the distributors back in.
Katy is correct if we talk about other worn parts.

John

Ideally all will be OK, if you want to be on the safe side check.


One easy way is to check/set the points gap before putting the distributor in the motor, put dist. in the motor, fully retard the spark, set timing pin cylinder 1 TDC, and then use the Nurex Timing Wrench. It may not be 100 % fussy/correct, but is real close and is a quick check. The Nurex is especially useful for side of the road.

[Forddan]

Originally Posted by aermotor

This is not incorrect. The backup distributor if set up properly can run forever as though it were new. Human hands are the only thing that can change a mechanical junction (which timing is) whether dist. #1, #2 or even #12 back up.
Pull any of the 12 back up distributors turn the engine as many times as you want and it will still be in time when you drop any of the distributors back in.
Katy is correct if we talk about other worn parts.

John

Thanks John !

Short story: a few weeks back I had a thread where I described that my car was backfiring, stalling, shaking like a horse, etc.

All started after a 60 mile trip, fortunately at arrival to my house.

It took me 2 weeks and $150 in replacement parts to finally find that the distributor lower plate was grounding. Not the wire, the metal to what is soldered the wire.

I decided, to get a rebuilt distributor and have it at the trunk. In case that happens 50 miles away home I can swap the distributor. For me that will be easier to do "on the road" than changing parts and time again.

That is my rational and the origin of my question : Can I have a timed distributor in the car trunk for an emergency?

If I understand you well, the answer is YES.

Thanks again