Re-index the Distributor Rotor and Correct Ignition Timing

Since the distributor is 180 degrees out of phase, it must be mechanically re-indexed to fire on the compression stroke rather than the exhaust stroke.

  1. Rotate the crankshaft manually in 5th gear until the timing mark on the pulley aligns with the 'P' (TDC) mark on the engine block while ensuring the engine is on the compression stroke for cylinder #1.
  2. Remove the distributor assembly entirely from the engine block.
  3. Rotate the distributor rotor 180 degrees so that it points directly toward the #1 spark plug wire terminal on the distributor cap.
  4. Carefully reinstall the distributor into the engine block, compensating for the helical gear rotation as the shaft engages to ensure the rotor remains aligned with the #1 terminal upon full seating.
  5. Use a timing light to verify and adjust the ignition timing to the factory specification of 2°–4° BTDC.

Sources


Diagnostic Documents
180-Degree Distributor Indexing Error
Automotive - Internal Combustion Engine

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Automotive - Internal Combustion Engine

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ID: TxvfKWqQTzMTTgKPXiOM
Created: 8/2/2026, 3:37:55 PM
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