Ignition Systems: Distributor: Installation

NOTE: If a new distributor is being fitted, mark body in same relative position as distributor removed.

1. Leads for distributor cap should be connected as illustrated. See Fig 1 . No. 1-8 indicate spark plug lead numbers. RH is right side of engine, when viewed from the rear. LH is left side of engine, when viewed from the rear. See Fig 2 .
2. If engine has not been turned while distributor has been removed, proceed to next step. Alternatively proceed to step  11 .
3. Fit new "O" ring seal to distributor housing.
4. Turn distributor drive until center line of rotor arm is 30° counter-clockwise from mark made on top edge of distributor body.
NOTE: It may be necessary to align oil pump drive shaft to enable distributor drive shaft to engage in slot.
5. Fit distributor in accordance with alignment markings.
6. Fit clamp and bolt. Secure distributor in exact original position.
7. Connect vacuum hose to distributor and low tension lead to coil.
8. Fit distributor cap.
9. Reconnect battery.
10. Using suitable electronic equipment, set the ignition timing. See ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTS -- RANGE ROVER article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE.
11. If, with distributor removed, engine has been turned it will be necessary to carry out the following procedure.
12. Set engine No. 1 piston to static ignition timing on compression stroke. See ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTS -- RANGE ROVER article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE.
13. Turn distributor drive until rotor arm is approximately 30°, counterclockwise from number one spark plug lead position on cap.
14. Fit distributor to engine.
15. Check that center line of rotor arm is now in line with number one spark plug lead on cap. Reposition distributor if necessary.
16. If distributor does not seat correctly in front cover, oil pump drive is not engaged. Engage by lightly pressing down distributor while turning engine.
17. Fit clamp and bolt leaving both loose at this stage.
18. Set the ignition timing statically to 6° BTDC.
19. Connect the vacuum hose to the distributor.
20. Fit low tension lead to coil.
21. Fit distributor cap.
22. Reconnect the battery.
23. Using suitable electronic equipment set the ignition timing. See ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTS -- RANGE ROVER article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE.

Fig 1: Identifying Spark Plug Wiring Routing

Courtesy of LAND ROVER NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Fig 2: Identifying Distributor Firing Order

Courtesy of LAND ROVER NORTH AMERICA, INC.