Engine Electrical
Distributor
A distributor sends high voltage from the ignition coil to each spark plug in the right firing order, and on many engines it also triggers the spark. We carry 35 distributors from $61 to $705 for 1970-2002 vehicles, from A1 Cardone, SKP, Brock and AC Delco, with fits for the Chevrolet Camaro and Corvette, Toyota Camry, Mazda B2200, and Nissan Frontier and Xterra.
Shop distributor by vehicle
When a distributor needs replacing
Signs include misfires, a no-spark condition, hard starting, stalling when hot, and timing that wanders. A worn shaft bushing lets the shaft wobble, which wears the cap and rotor and upsets the pickup signal. An oil leak at the base O-ring or a cracked housing is another reason. Many problems come from the cap, rotor, pickup or ignition module alone, so test those parts before buying a complete unit.
Types and what is included
Distributors here include HEI and breakerless, magnetic coil and optical types, for 4 and 6 cylinder engines. Check what comes in the box. Some units include the distributor cap, the ignition rotor and the electronic module, while others ship without them so you reuse or buy them separately. Remanufactured units from A1 Cardone are rebuilt to the original design. Match the gear, the connector and the mounting flange to your engine.
Installation and timing
Before removing the old unit, note or mark where the rotor points and the position of the housing, so you can drop the new one in at the same place. Disconnect the battery first. If the engine is turned while the distributor is out, bring cylinder 1 to top dead center before installing. After installation, set the base timing with a timing light if your engine allows adjustment, following the procedure on the emissions label or in your service manual.
Distributor questions
Does a new distributor come with a cap and rotor?
It depends on the listing. Check the cap included, rotor included and module supplied fields. If they are not included, plan to buy new ones or reuse yours if they are in good shape.
Do I need to set the timing after installing a distributor?
On engines with adjustable timing, yes. Set it with a timing light using the procedure on your emissions label or in the service manual. Some later engines are not adjustable and only need the unit installed in the correct position.
What does HEI mean on a distributor?
HEI stands for High Energy Ignition, a GM breakerless design. Many HEI units have the coil built into the cap. They replaced older points distributors and do not need point gap adjustments.