Where does the rotor go on a MSD distributor?
MSD distributors are designed like OE units so that when the distributor is set at its initial timing (let’s put it at 12 degrees Before Top Dead Center (BTDC), the reluctor will line up with the magnetic pickup and the rotor will be pointed directly at the distributor cap spark plug terminal.
How does a distributor rotor in an engine work?
Distributor rotors work by providing a movable connection between an ignition coil and a set of spark plugs. When the engine is operating normally, the distributor shaft rotates in time with the camshaft.
When does a distributor rotor and cap need to be replaced?
In addition, this part is more likely to fail if you drive through a deep puddle because water will get into the distributor cap and short out the electrical current. The cap may not need to be replaced if this is the case, it may need to just dry out for a certain period of time.
How do you set rotor phasing on a stock engine?
Stock distributors align the rotor with the spark plug terminal on the distributor cap with the engine at the initial timing position, and since the reluctor and rotor are fixed together, mechanical advance does not cause phasing issues because as the trigger is advanced, so is the rotor.
MSD distributors are designed like OE units so that when the distributor is set at its initial timing (let’s put it at 12 degrees Before Top Dead Center (BTDC), the reluctor will line up with the magnetic pickup and the rotor will be pointed directly at the distributor cap spark plug terminal.
How to match rotor position to old distributor?
Step 1: Match rotor position to old distributor When you removed the old distributor, you will have marked the position where the distributor engages the engine. This will allow you to match the location on the new distributor and ease the alignment when installing.
Stock distributors align the rotor with the spark plug terminal on the distributor cap with the engine at the initial timing position, and since the reluctor and rotor are fixed together, mechanical advance does not cause phasing issues because as the trigger is advanced, so is the rotor.
Where is the tip of the rotor supposed to be?
On clockwise distributors, the rotor tip should be on the right of the terminal when spark occurs, provided the advance is disconnected and plugged. If it is connected, the tip should be to the left when spark is seen. On a counter-clockwise distributor, these positions will be reversed.