Distributors

Which distributor suits your engine, and should the ignition be controlled conventionally or by an EFI system? This category brings together distributors and ignition kits for Chevy, Buick, Cadillac, Pontiac and Chrysler, among others. It is for you if you are restoring or upgrading the ignition in your project.

What does a distributor do?

The distributor sends the ignition voltage to the right cylinder at the right time. It is typically driven by the camshaft via a drive gear, and its condition can affect idle, power and fuel consumption. Some distributors regulate ignition advance themselves, while others are designed for electronic control, e.g. in Edelbrock's Ignition Control Kit for E-Street EFI II. The distributor works closely with ignition coils and ignition modules, so it makes sense to assess the ignition as a whole.

How to choose a distributor

• Engine: The distributors are made for specific engine families, e.g. Buick 400/455, Pontiac 326-455 or Chrysler 426/440. Check the engine code, not just the car make.
• Deck height: A distributor for a short deck Chrysler has a different shaft length than one for a taller block.
• Drive gear: Variants such as Short Tooth in the Pro-Tuner series show that the drive gear must match the engine and camshaft. Check the specifications for the specific part number.
• Ignition system: Will the distributor be used with conventional ignition or with an EFI system that controls the ignition?

Brands in this category include Edelbrock, FAST, COMP Cams, OMIX and Moroso.

Installation and maintenance

Note the rotor position and firing order before removing the old distributor so the new one can be installed in the same position. After installation, ignition timing typically needs to be set with a timing light. Wear on the distributor cap and rotor can cause misfires, so check them during servicing. You will find other ignition parts under ignition components.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the distributor drive gear important?

The drive gear meshes with the camshaft gear. If the type or material does not suit the camshaft, it can cause abnormal wear. Therefore, check the part number's specifications against your engine and camshaft before installation.

Can I use a standard distributor with E-Street EFI II?

It depends on whether the EFI system is to control the ignition. Edelbrock offers Ignition Control Kits for E-Street EFI II, e.g. for AMC 343-390 and Chrysler RB 440, which are designed for exactly this system.

How do I spot a worn distributor?

Typical signs can be rough idle, misfires, fluctuating ignition timing or play in the shaft. The symptoms can also be caused by the ignition coil, leads or spark plugs, so check the entire ignition system before replacing the distributor.