Distributor and oil pump

[Russell Reay]

I have read-probably on this forum--that it is possible to remove the distributor and cause the oil pump to drop into the oil pan. I plan to rebuild my dist, but do not wish to prompt an oil pump recovery project. There is no mention of this issue in the red book. What precautions should I take?

 

[midgetracer]

The oil pump cannot drop into the oil pan. It is held in place with a spring between the pump and the bottom of the oil pan. No precaution necessary when pulling the distributor.

 

[Bill Cilker]

The oil pump dropping probably came from an AI answer some were.

 

[Jim/GA]

I have read-probably on this forum--that it is possible to remove the distributor and cause the oil pump to drop into the oil pan. I plan to rebuild my dist, but do not wish to prompt an oil pump recovery project. There is no mention of this issue in the red book. What precautions should I take?

You are good.

I would recommend, before removing the distributor, that you turn the crankshaft slowly until you get the timing pin to drop into place, putting the #1 piston at top dead center (TDC). Take a picture of where your rotor is positioned now when at TDC. Don't move the crankshaft after that.

Then you can use that picture later, when you install and go to time the rebuilt distributor, as a simple cross check that your timing is close to correct. It is easy to get the timing off and the rotor position is a dead giveaway.

 

[jeepguy1948]

That’s very good advice Jim, that’s what I do whenever messing with the distributor.

 

[old31]

The hard part is the oil pump install. Make sure you have a bolt to hold it up for install.

https://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/product.htm?pid=978837&cat=41753

 

[German guy]

The pump is held in place by the spring at the bottom making contact with the oil pan. Removing the distributor can not make it fall. If you drop the oil pan...yes...you should ensure that the retaining screw is in place to avoid the pump from dropping.

 

[Russell Reay]

The pump is held in place by the spring at the bottom making contact with the oil pan. Removing the distributor can not make it fall. If you drop the oil pan...yes...you should ensure that the retaining screw is in place to avoid the pump from dropping.

I probably read that several years ago, and subconsciously imported the distributor into the issue. Thanks to all for the guidance.