Parts for your Chevrolet Camaro
Chevrolet Camaro Distributors
Buy Chevrolet Camaro distributors online for 1976-1997 cars, from HEI units for older small blocks to the LT1 OptiSpark. We list 19 distributors priced from $60.95 to $638.95. Fitment covers the 2.5L four, 3.1L V6, 4.1L six and 5.0L and 5.7L V8, from A1 Cardone, Spectra Premium, Delphi, SKP, Brock and DIY Solutions.
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Which Camaro distributor fits
Distributors follow the engine and ignition system, not the trim. Most 1976-1992 Camaros use HEI-style distributors at the rear of the engine, but V6 and V8 units are different, and even V8 units vary by displacement, emissions and ignition design. The 1993 and later 5.7L LT1 uses an OptiSpark optical distributor mounted at the front of the engine, a completely different part.
Check year, engine, VIN code and ignition type before you order. Listings here note engines such as the 5.0L with VIN code G and the 5.7L with VIN code P, and one Z28 listing fits only 5.0L and 5.7L engines. Compare the drive, cap and connector with your original.
Signs of a failing distributor
Common complaints are a crank-no-start, sudden stalling, hesitation, rough running and misfire. Worn shaft bushings let the shaft wobble, which upsets the rotor and can cause misfire, rough idle and lost power. On 1983-1984 2.8L V6 cars, stalling when hot and restarting after cooling is a documented ignition module symptom.
On LT1 engines, OptiSpark trouble can show up as a no-start, misfire or intermittent stalling, and moisture getting into the unit is a known factor. These symptoms can also come from wiring, sensors, fuel delivery or a bad coil, so test the ignition system before you replace the distributor.
Installing a Camaro distributor
Read what is included. Some distributors come with the module, pickup, coil, cap and rotor, and others do not. If yours does not include them, inspect your old cap, rotor and plug wires and replace any that are worn.
On HEI engines, disconnect the battery, bring cylinder 1 to top dead center on compression and mark the housing and rotor position before removal. Install the new unit so the rotor points to the number 1 terminal, allowing for slight rotation as the gear meshes, then set base timing with a timing light. On LT1 engines, line up the splined drive and seat the OptiSpark flush by hand. Never pull it into place with the bolts.
More about distributors
Read our distributors buying guide for how the part works and what to look for in any vehicle.
Camaro questions
Does a 1993-1997 Camaro LT1 use a regular HEI distributor?
No. The 5.7L LT1 uses an OptiSpark optical distributor mounted at the front of the engine. A conventional HEI unit will not fit. Choose an LT1 listing in the fitment table.
Are Camaro V6 and V8 distributors interchangeable?
No. Even though many are HEI-style, V6 and V8 distributors differ in drive, connector and calibration. Match your engine and VIN code before you order.
Do I need to set timing after replacing a Camaro distributor?
Yes, on HEI-style engines. Install the distributor with cylinder 1 at top dead center and the rotor on the number 1 terminal, then set base ignition timing to spec with a timing light.