Replacing the distributor on a 1997 Chevy 350 is a relatively straightforward procedure that can be completed in approximately two hours. However, it is important to note that this task requires some mechanical experience and knowledge. Before attempting this repair, it is crucial to consult a service manual or seek guidance from a qualified mechanic. Additionally, it is essential to ensure you have the necessary tools and replacement parts before commencing the replacement process.
Before you begin, gather the necessary replacement parts, including a new distributor, gasket, and O-ring. You will also need basic hand tools such as a socket wrench set, screwdrivers, and pliers. Once you have everything you need, park your vehicle in a safe and well-lit area, engage the parking brake, and disconnect the negative battery terminal.
To start the replacement process, locate the distributor, usually situated at the front of the engine. Remove the distributor cap and carefully inspect the rotor and terminals for any signs of wear or damage. Next, disconnect the electrical connectors attached to the distributor. Using a socket wrench, loosen the mounting bolt securing the distributor to the engine block. Carefully lift the distributor straight up and out of the engine, taking care not to damage the O-ring or gasket. Clean the mating surface on the engine block and apply a small amount of sealant to the new gasket before installing it. Position the new distributor over the gasket, ensuring proper alignment, and tighten the mounting bolt securely. Reconnect the electrical connectors and install the distributor cap. Finally, reconnect the negative battery terminal and start the engine to check for proper operation.
Gather Tools and Safety Precautions
Essential Tools:
- Socket wrench set with extensions
- Torque wrench
- Distributor wrench or socket
- Gasket scraper
- Distributor cap and rotor
- Rags or shop towels
- Flashlight
Safety Precautions:
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal before starting any work to prevent electrical shocks.
- Allow the engine to cool completely before working on the distributor to avoid burns.
- Park the vehicle on a flat, stable surface and engage the parking brake for safety.
- Wear safety glasses and nitrile gloves to protect against flying debris and chemicals.
- Keep flammable materials away from the work area, as a spark can ignite them.
- If you are uncomfortable performing any of these tasks, consult with a qualified mechanic for assistance.
Other Considerations:
- Purchase a replacement distributor cap and rotor if you suspect they may also be faulty.
- Clean the distributor mounting surface thoroughly to ensure a proper seal.
- Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the electrical terminals to prevent corrosion.
- Follow the torque specifications for all bolts and nuts to prevent damage or leaks.
[Locate the Distributor]
Locating the distributor on your 1997 Chevy 350 is a straightforward process. It’s typically situated at the front of the engine, either on the passenger or driver’s side. To narrow down its location:
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Identify the spark plug wires: Follow the spark plug wires from the spark plugs to a central point where they converge. This is a good indication of the distributor’s position.
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Check the engine block: Look for a round, metal housing with a cap and wires coming out of it. This housing usually has the letters “DIST” or “DELCO” inscribed on it.
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Consult the vehicle’s service manual: If you’re still having trouble, refer to the specific service manual for your 1997 Chevy 350. It will provide detailed instructions to help you locate the distributor accurately.
Once you have located the distributor, you can proceed to disconnect the spark plug wires and other components to prepare for its removal.
Mark the Rotor Position
Before disconnecting any wires from the distributor, it’s important to mark the position of the rotor. This will ensure that the new distributor is installed in the same orientation as the old one. To mark the rotor position, simply use a piece of tape or a permanent marker to draw a line from the center of the distributor cap to the edge of the rotor. This line will serve as a reference point when installing the new distributor.
If you are removing the distributor to replace it with a new one, you will need to mark the position of the distributor body in relation to the engine block. This will ensure that the new distributor is installed in the same position as the old one. To mark the distributor body position, simply use a piece of tape or a permanent marker to draw a line from the center of the distributor body to the edge of the engine block. This line will serve as a reference point when installing the new distributor.
Once you have marked the rotor position and the distributor body position, you can proceed to disconnect the wires from the distributor. Be sure to label each wire so that you know which wire goes where when you reconnect the new distributor.
The following table shows the steps involved in marking the rotor position:
Step | Description |
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1 | Disconnect the negative battery terminal. |
2 | Remove the distributor cap. |
3 | Use a piece of tape or a permanent marker to draw a line from the center of the distributor cap to the edge of the rotor. |
4 | Remove the distributor body. |
5 | Use a piece of tape or a permanent marker to draw a line from the center of the distributor body to the edge of the engine block. |
6 | Reconnect the negative battery terminal. |
Remove the Distributor Cap
Before you can replace the distributor, you need to remove the distributor cap. To do this, follow these steps:
- Locate the distributor cap on the top of the engine. It is usually black or red and has a round shape.
- Grab the distributor cap and pull it straight up. It may be a little stiff, but it should come off easily.
- Once the distributor cap is removed, you will see the rotor and the distributor terminals.
- Inspect the inside of the distributor cap for any signs of wear or damage. If the cap is cracked or damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Extract the Rotor
Extracting the rotor requires a few careful steps. Follow these instructions to successfully remove the rotor:
- Mark the Distributor Position: Before removing the rotor, use a marking tool or paint to create a reference mark on the distributor housing and the rotor. This mark will help you ensure that the rotor is installed back in the correct alignment during reassembly.
- Disconnect the Battery: As a safety precaution, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery before working on the distributor.
- Locate the Rotor Retaining Screw: Underneath the rotor, you will find a small screw that secures it to the distributor shaft. Locate this screw and loosen it using a Phillips head screwdriver.
- Gently Lift the Rotor: Once the screw is loosened, gently lift the rotor straight up and off the distributor shaft. Avoid pulling or prying on the rotor, as it can damage the internal components.
- Inspect the Rotor and Shaft: Inspect both the rotor and the distributor shaft for wear or damage. If the rotor is excessively worn or cracked, replace it with a new one. Similarly, check the shaft for any pitting or excessive wear.
Mark Distributor Position |
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Pull Out the Distributor
Before attempting to remove the distributor, disconnect the negative terminal of your battery to ensure safety. Once disconnected, follow these steps to pull out the distributor:
- Remove the distributor cap by gently prying it upwards.
- Locate the rotor inside the distributor and rotate the engine crankshaft until the rotor points to the number one cylinder’s position. This can be found on the distributor housing.
- Disconnect the vacuum line from the distributor body.
- Unplug the electrical connections leading to the distributor, paying attention to their original positions for reassembly.
- Loosen the hold-down bolt on the distributor using a socket wrench.
- Grip the distributor body firmly and pull it straight upwards, ensuring that the distributor rotor does not come into contact with the cylinder head during removal. Be aware that the distributor can be slightly stuck, so wiggle it gently if necessary to loosen it.
Additional Notes for Step 6: Removing the Distributor
- When pulling the distributor, avoid touching the ignition coil contacts or the distributor gear with your hands, as this can contaminate the surfaces and affect performance. Gloves can be used for protection.
- If the distributor is particularly stubborn and does not come out easily, try using a penetrating lubricant such as WD-40 on the hold-down bolt and waiting for it to penetrate before attempting to remove the distributor again.
- Be cautious not to drop the distributor while removing it, as it can be damaged if it falls.
Insert the New Distributor
Now that the old distributor has been removed, it’s time to insert the new one. Here’s how to do it:
1. Align the Drive Gear
Rotate the oil pump drive shaft until the rotor points towards the number one spark plug wire terminal on the distributor cap. This will ensure that the drive gear is in the correct position.
2. Position the Distributor
Carefully position the new distributor over the oil pump drive shaft, making sure that the drive gear engages with the shaft. Gently slide the distributor into place.
3. Secure the Clamp
Locate the clamp that holds the distributor in place. Tighten the clamp to secure the distributor, but do not overtighten it.
4. Install the Ignition Module
If your new distributor does not come with a pre-installed ignition module, you will need to install it now. Align the module with the corresponding holes on the distributor and secure it with screws.
5. Connect the Wiring
Reattach the spark plug wires to the distributor cap, ensuring that they are connected to the correct terminals. Also, reconnect the coil wire and other wiring as necessary.
6. Install the Distributor Cap
Place the distributor cap over the distributor and secure it with screws. Make sure that the cap is properly aligned and seals tightly.
7. Double-Check the Connections
Before starting the engine, thoroughly double-check all the electrical connections and ensure that the vacuum advance hose is properly attached. Loose or incorrect connections can cause problems with engine performance.
Secure the Distributor
Once the distributor is properly seated, it’s crucial to secure it tightly. This is a critical step that ensures the distributor remains in place and functions correctly while the engine is running.
Step 1: Insert Bolt: Locate the bolt that secures the distributor to the engine block. It’s typically a 10mm or 13mm bolt.
Step 2: Tighten Bolt: Use a wrench to tighten the bolt snugly. Do not overtighten it, as this can damage the threads or the distributor itself.
Step 3: Distributor Cap: Align the distributor cap with the distributor body and press it down firmly. Ensure it is fully seated and locked in place.
Step 4: Reconnect Wires: Connect the spark plug wires to the distributor cap, ensuring each wire is correctly plugged into the corresponding spark plug terminal.
Step 5: Restart Engine: With all connections secured, start the engine to verify its proper operation. The engine should run smoothly and without any misfires or hesitation.
To ensure the distributor is securely fastened, consult the vehicle’s service manual for the recommended torque specifications for the distributor hold-down bolt. This will provide precise guidance on how tightly the bolt should be tightened.
Torque Value | Bolt Size |
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20-25 ft-lbs | 10mm |
30-35 ft-lbs | 13mm |
Install the Distributor Cap
With the rotor installed, align the distributor cap with the rotor and the base. Insert the cap over the rotor and turn it clockwise until it clicks into place. Make sure the cap is seated correctly and all the spark plug wires are connected.
Set the Timing
Once the distributor is installed, you need to set the timing. This ensures that the spark is delivered at the correct time in relation to the piston’s position. Refer to your vehicle’s repair manual for specific instructions on how to set the timing. It will involve connecting a timing light to the engine and adjusting the distributor until the timing mark on the engine aligns with the mark on the timing light.
Tighten the Distributor Hold-Down Bolt
Once the timing is set, tighten the distributor hold-down bolt to the specified torque. This will secure the distributor in place and prevent it from moving.
Reinstall the Ignition Coil
If you removed the ignition coil earlier, reinstall it onto the distributor. Secure it with the bolts or screws provided.
Connect the Battery
Reattach the negative battery cable to the battery terminal. This will restore power to the engine and ignition system.
Start the Engine
Start the engine and allow it to run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks or other issues. If everything is working properly, the engine should run smoothly and without any problems.
Replace the Distributor Cap
Now that the distributor is out of the vehicle, it’s time to replace the cap. The cap is what houses the rotor and contacts, and it is what makes the electrical connection to the spark plugs, so it’s important that it’s in good condition.
To replace the cap, simply unbolt the old one and bolt on the new one. Make sure that the cap is aligned properly before you tighten the bolts, and that the rotor is in the correct position when you install it on the distributor shaft.
Once the cap is replaced, you can put the distributor back into the vehicle.
Removing the Old Distributor Cap
- Locate the distributor cap on the top of the distributor.
- Pull the distributor cap straight up to remove it from the distributor.
- Inspect the distributor cap for any signs of damage or wear.
Installing the New Distributor Cap
- Place the new distributor cap on the top of the distributor.
- Push down on the distributor cap until it snaps into place.
- Align the distributor cap with the marks on the distributor housing.
- Tighten the distributor cap bolts to 10-15 ft-lbs.
- Check the distributor cap for proper fit and operation.
Distributor Cap Bolt Torque Specifications | |
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Bolt Size | Torque |
M6 | 10-15 ft-lbs |
How To Replace A Distributor On A 1997 Chevy 350
Replacing a distributor on a 1997 Chevy 350 is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about an hour. Here are the steps involved:
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Locate the distributor cap and remove the bolts that hold it in place.
- Lift the distributor cap off of the distributor.
- Mark the position of the rotor on the distributor shaft.
- Remove the bolt that holds the distributor in place.
- Carefully lift the distributor out of the engine.
- Install the new distributor into the engine, making sure that the rotor is aligned with the mark you made earlier.
- Tighten the bolt that holds the distributor in place.
- Install the distributor cap and tighten the bolts that hold it in place.
- Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Start the engine and check for any leaks or problems.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my distributor is bad?
There are a few signs that may indicate that your distributor is bad. These include:
- Engine misfires
- Engine hesitation
- Loss of power
- Engine stalling
How much does it cost to replace a distributor?
The cost of replacing a distributor will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as the labor rates of your mechanic. However, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 for parts and labor.
Can I replace a distributor myself?
Yes, it is possible to replace a distributor yourself. However, this is a job that is best left to a qualified mechanic if you are not comfortable working on your vehicle.