77 RC Distributor removal

Warrenoliver

New User
I am cleaning up and doing some minor repairs on my 77 gas tractor. I want to remove the distributor to lube it. My operator's manual says the reservoir should be filled with 20W engine oil every 1000 hours. Since I don't know its previous history, I am going to lube it. The picture in the manual show the plug being removed with the distributor in a vice. My question is: how do I remove the distributor? Does the engine have to be set to a certain position? How will the distributor be reinstalled so I am sure it is in the same position so I don't effect the timing, or can I just pull it out and reinstall because it only goes in one way?

Another question, since I have the radiator out, I am thinking of replacing the water pump. It is not leaking and the shaft turns smoothly. Is this something I should proactively replace or should I replace only if I have problems with it?

Thanks for your help.

Warrenoliver
 
Well unless you want problems yes you should have the engine at TDC on #1 cylinder and mark the distributor so you can put it back in at the same place so as not to mess up the firing order
 
To make this simple. scribe a straight line on the distributor body where it contacts the engine block. Make sure the line extends on the block. By doing this when you assemble the distributor back in the block all you need to do is align the 2 lines and the timing will be correct. You may need to bump the distributor loose with a block of wood and a hammer. Also lube the wick on the distributor cam and put a drop of oil in the top of the distributor cam shaft once you remove the rotor. More questions? I would use the old water pump How many hours do you think you will use the 77 in a year?
 
you can't mess it up, it has an offset slotted drive and only goes in one way, just mark the dist. to the block as mentioned
 

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