Autolite distributor disassembly

CONSERVATIONMAN · Sep 6, 2023

My VAC Autolite IAD 4101A 2C distributor feels very loose to me. I've taken it apart as far as I can but don't know how to get the cam shaft? off.
item 1100RK in image

also what is item IGS 99

Do the lobes look worn? they seam flat to me.
This is off of a 47 VAC

Thanks
Wally

J Hamilton · Sep 6, 2023

There is a retainer clip in the center, pull out the felt to access it. I removed mine with a small screwdriver. You may have to work the cam up and down a few times to get it off once the retainer is free. Hope this helps

Stephen Newell · Sep 6, 2023

As old as it is I think you would tear up the distributor before you get the lobe part off. You might take the distributor off and turn it upside down into a container of penetrating oil and let it soak for a few days. I know with my luck I would bend the distributor shaft trying to get it off. Better check and see the availability of the part before you make the attempt.

rustred · Sep 6, 2023

Pull the clip out of the top of it. Pretty straight forward if u know it has to swivel in the main shaft , something has to hold it from coming up.

stevieb49829 · Sep 6, 2023

That clip is not made to easily exit it's bore. And once you have it almost out, it will spring across the room and hide under the air hose on the floor. Ask me how I know!! steve

CONSERVATIONMAN · Sep 6, 2023

I see that clip down in there, If I can get it out any way to tighten it up? Bushings or ???

Any sources for parts or Distributers?

Thanks
for the replys
Wally

J Hamilton · Sep 7, 2023

I got repair parts for mine from Willys Distributors 760-842-1356

Stephen Newell · Sep 7, 2023

Messicks shows the part but says Call. Don't know if availability is the issue or price. From what I can tell the part may be in the 200 dollar range. Your part shows wear but don't know if it merits replacement. I would think it would need replacement when it couldn't open the points enough.

Steve@Advance · Sep 7, 2023

The lobes look good.

The most important thing is that 1180R fits the bushing down inside the housing. If that is loose the points gap will not stay set. It should have very little side play. If the bushings or shaft are worn it will be easier to buy a rebuilt distributor if available.

It's common for 1100RK to rust tight to the shaft. It should turn freely so the weight springs can return it when released. If it's stuck you may have to tap the shaft out with a punch once the snap ring is removed, just don't mushroom the end of the shaft. Use penetrating oil first.

stevieb49829 · Sep 11, 2023

If/When you get the Cam off the shaft, clean them both up, and check for slop. If its really sloppy fit, the knurled upper shaft is worn. That's because the cam piece is extremely hard. A worn shaft will require a replacement shaft. Some NOS shafts can be found on the net, using the distributor number. Give me some length and diameter measurements and I may have a spare IAD shaft, if you need it. Is this the Continental engine? steve

Autolite distributor disassembly

CONSERVATIONMAN

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J Hamilton

Well-known Member

Stephen Newell

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rustred

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stevieb49829

Well-known Member

CONSERVATIONMAN

Member

J Hamilton

Well-known Member

Stephen Newell

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Steve@Advance

Well-known Member

stevieb49829

Well-known Member

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