Stuck Distributor

I’m facing a challenging situation where the distributor in my 1928 Fordor’s engine is firmly stuck in the head. Do you have any recommendations for safely removing a distributor that seems to be stubbornly stuck?

Answer:

The issue you’re experiencing is likely due to condensation causing rust to form around the distributor hole in the head, effectively binding the distributor in place.

Here’s a recommended approach to safely remove a stubbornly stuck distributor:

  1. Spray PB Blast, a rust inhibitor, under the distributor to help penetrate the rust.
  2. Remove the set screw located on the right side of the head and spray more PB Blast into the set screw hole.
  3. Use a small cold chisel and exercise caution as you gently tap it under the distributor. Apply just enough pressure to attempt to raise the distributor. Avoid excessive force, as rushing this process can result in the base shaft housing breaking off and remaining in the head.

Be patient as it may take several days of repeating this procedure to break the rust loose and allow the distributor to gradually rise up. Exercise caution to avoid any damage.

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