How to Rebuild a Chevy Distributor

Remove the distributor cap using a common screwdriver. Remove the rotor using a Phillips screwdriver. Remove the two screws securing the vacuum-advance mechanism to the distributor housing, using a Phillips screwdriver; lift the mechanism up slightly to disconnect the arm and withdraw the unit.

Remove both counterweights and the springs on the top of the shaft by pulling the springs off the shaft studs. Remove the two screws securing the ignition module, using a ¼-inch drive socket and socket driver. Disconnect the electrical connector on both ends of the ignition module.

Clean the inside of the distributor housing by spraying carburetor cleaner on the housing; let it dry completely before proceeding.

Install the new ignition module using the two screws and the socket driver. Connect both electrical connectors. Install the new vacuum advance with the same two screws that held the old vacuum advance on; tilt it slightly and insert the L-shaped rod into its hole in the distributor base. Tighten the screws with the Phillips screwdriver.

Open the advance curve kit and lay the pieces out on the table. The kit comes with three sets of springs ranging from heavy to light and three counterweights, also ranging from heavy to light.

Insert a plastic bushing that came with the kit into the chosen weights. Install the weights and the springs onto their respective posts. Install the new rotor and tighten it down with the Phillips screwdriver.

Install the new coil in the new distributor cap by placing the center carbon piece with the small spring on top into the center hole of the distributor cap. Place the round rubber piece with a hole in the center over the carbon center contact. Place the coil directly on top of the carbon contact and spring, insert the four screws and tighten them down with a ¼-inch drive socket and driver. Place the three electrical blade contacts into their respective holes in the cap.

Remove the coil cover cap from the old distributor cap and place it on the new cap. Install the four screws and tighten. The new modified distributor will advance the spark much faster than stock for superior combustion; the performance coil will offer much longer spark duration, complementing the spark advance and resulting in a significant power increase.