Distributor pick-up coil

[Tnplumber]

I have been chasing an intermittent starting problem and all signs point to the distributor pick-up coil. The air gap is wrong and looks as if it has rubbed on the reluctor. I have an old motor auto repair manual from 1977 which details how to replace the pick-up. The only problem is it seems like it is contradicting itself. My question is....Do you have to remove the distributor from the engine to change out the pick-up or can you just leave it in the car?

 

[MVRCorp]

I'm no expert but I can't see why you couldn't. It's just easier to pull the dizzy. In and out it shouldn't take more then 4-5 minutes and beats leaning over to do it. It would be a good opportunity to go thru the it and check everything.

 

[redfastback]

I have been chasing an intermittent starting problem and all signs point to the distributor pick-up coil. The air gap is wrong and looks as if it has rubbed on the reluctor. I have an old motor auto repair manual from 1977 which details how to replace the pick-up. The only problem is it seems like it is contradicting itself. My question is....Do you have to remove the distributor from the engine to change out the pick-up or can you just leave it in the car?

its been awhile but...........i think you just undo 1 screw?:scratch: and lift the rubber grommet out of the side and the whole piece comes out??? am i remembering correctly? or is it just what i want to think how it comes out?
where's my manual??:read2:

 

[63dartman]

It would definately make it easier pulling the distributor. Are you changing both pieces? The pickup and the reluctor? I do believe the pickup is held on with one screw but, the vac advance arm also comes in under the plate and can be a bi@## to get out. I may be making it harder than it is the way I do it. The reluctor is just a slight press fit with a pin at the bottom that slides into a slot on the shaft. Very easy to see once you know it's there. I usually just pry it off evenly with a pair flat tip screw drivers on either side. As far as doing it in the car......It is just cramped back there near the firewall. Just take it to TDC, mark the distributor at the bottom in relation to the block and mark the distributor on top where your rotor is pointing(should be #1 plug wire) As long as it goes back in like that you should be good to go. Just don't turn it over with the distributor out since it can go in 180 out.

 

[Tnplumber]

thanks for all the suggestions. I ended up removing the distributor and noticed the teeth on the reluctor were damgaed so i just order a whole new distributor. I'll keep everyone posted. again thanks.

Scott