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Old 07-22-2018, 05:01 PM   #1
36and63
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Default Distributor Question

Can you advance or retard the timing slightly with the screw adjust on the distributor? This is a 38 engine and I enclose a pic of the plate and screw.

Thanks, Pat
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Old 07-22-2018, 05:26 PM   #2
Russ/40
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Default Re: Distributor Question

The screw you see is a lock down once the timing is set. Yes you can advance or retard timing by loosening the screw then rotating the inner assembly.
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Old 07-22-2018, 06:05 PM   #3
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Default Re: Distributor Question

Be sure you mark the exact location before you loosen the screw so you know your starting place. Might be easier to see where you're at if you remove the distributor. On replacing it, the tang only goes in one way correctly. The distributor will fall into place if correct, but offer resistance if 180º out.
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Old 07-22-2018, 06:43 PM   #4
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Default Re: Distributor Question

It is set on the third graduation from the top so I presume moving it clockwise
(up) will advance it? It starts easily and seems to run cool well but once I get up to around 40 mph shes starts to sputter and cough/crackling a little. Would retarding it help this symptom?
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Old 07-22-2018, 07:10 PM   #5
Ken/Alabama
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Default Re: Distributor Question

When's the last time the distributor was removed and checked out? Don't think advancing or retarding is gonna correct your problem.
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Old 07-22-2018, 07:17 PM   #6
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Default Re: Distributor Question

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The distributer was rebuilt by Bubba's a short while back before I installed it on the engine.
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Old 07-22-2018, 07:31 PM   #7
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Default Re: Distributor Question

Plug wires in good condition? Could have a condenser going bad or a crack in one of the caps.
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Old 07-22-2018, 08:03 PM   #8
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Default Re: Distributor Question

I replaced wires and caps with new but I will have to check the condenser. I'll give the caps a good look to since you never know.
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Old 07-22-2018, 08:59 PM   #9
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Default Re: Distributor Question

I think condensor ....
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Old 07-23-2018, 06:25 PM   #10
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Default Re: Distributor Question

To Bubbas, just sent you a PM

Thanks,
Pat
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