Top 6 How Often To Replace Distributor Cap And Rotor The 125 New Answer

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Replacing the distributor cap and rotor at the same time should be completed every 50,000 miles, regardless of whether or not they are damaged. If your vehicle does not put on a lot of miles every year, it’s also a good idea to replace them every three years.Common signs include engine misfires, car not starting, the Check Engine Light coming on, and excessive or unusual engine noises.A typical distributor housing and gear drive lasts the lifetime of the vehicle. Its components such as the rotor, cap, and points don’t last that long. On average, most people with an older vehicle need to replace these components every 10k-20k miles.

Contents

How do I know if my distributor cap and rotor is bad?

Common signs include engine misfires, car not starting, the Check Engine Light coming on, and excessive or unusual engine noises.

When should I replace distributor?

A typical distributor housing and gear drive lasts the lifetime of the vehicle. Its components such as the rotor, cap, and points don’t last that long. On average, most people with an older vehicle need to replace these components every 10k-20k miles.

Can I change the rotor and distributor cap?

To replace the rotor, you need to slide it off the distributor housing. The rotor is placed just underneath the distributor cap in your engine compartment. It looks like a fan blade. To remove it, you need to check if it is connected with screws.

How long does a cap and rotor last?

The distributor cap, rotor and spark plugs could make it longer, and were often replaced at the 30,000-mile (48,280-kilometer) tune-up. Spark plug wires held out the longest, with a recommended change at around 90,000 miles (144,841 kilometers). By the 1990s, distributorless ignition systems were becoming more common.

Do distributor caps go bad?

Since the distributor rotor and cap can go bad over time because they are located in a harsh environment, it is important to know the symptoms this part will give off before it completely fails. Signs you need your distributor rotor and cap replaced include: The Check Engine Light comes on.

How many miles does a distributor last?

A car distributor should last about 90,000 miles. However, there are parts of the distributor that should be replaced earlier. For instance, the distributor cap should be replaced every 30,000 miles.

How do you tell if a distributor is worn out?

A bad distributor produces a unique squealing noise that can be easily distinguished from other engine noises. If you hear such a sound from the engine bay, check under the distributor cap. Generally, a distributor will produce a squealing noise when it’s caked with grease and other pollutants.

How much does it cost to replace distributor cap and rotor?

A distributor cap and rotor replacement will cost anywhere from $30-$300. This price includes both the parts and labor.

How much does a distributor cap cost?

When you need to replace your distributor cap and rotor because they have gone bad, you can expect to pay anywhere from $70 to $130 for the job. This total includes both parts and labor costs together. In most cases, expect to pay somewhere between $30 and $60 for parts and another $40 to $70 in labor.

Why do we need to replace distributor cap and cables?

We often get the question “Why should I replace the spark plug wires, distributor cap and rotor?” Here’s the answer. Spark plugs, wires, distributor caps and rotors break down and fail over time due to exposure to moisture, oil, grease and under hood temperatures that can reach as much as 550 to 700 degrees.

Can I spray wd40 in my distributor?

WD stands for Water Displacement, so if your spark plugs are wet or you need to drive moisture away from ignition distributors, WD-40 will do the trick. Turn off the vehicle and spray the spark plug wires and the inside and outside of your distributor cap with WD-40. Start the car back up to see if that did the trick.

Can a bad distributor cause loss of power?

In comparison with modern cars and their solid-state ignition systems, the distributor has to be one of the most infernal parts of an older engine. If not regularly checked and maintained, it can cause all kinds of problems, like poor starting, misfiring, low power and, er, being stuck on the side of the road.

What are the signs of a bad distributor cap?

Bad Distributor Cap Symptoms
  • Trouble Starting. As the distributor cap gets worse, you are going to have trouble starting the engine. …
  • Shaking. If you are experiencing intense vibrations or shaking in your car, it could be due to the distributor cap causing misfires. …
  • Stalling. …
  • Squealing Noises. …
  • Check Engine Light.

What are signs of bad rotors?

Signs of a Bad Rotor
  • Vibration in the Steering Wheel. …
  • Pulsating Brake Pedal. …
  • Intermittent Brake Noises. …
  • Grinding When Hitting Brakes. …
  • Screeching After Brake Pad Installation. …
  • Out-Of-Round Rotors. …
  • Deep Grooves or Score Marks. …
  • Cracked Rotors.

Signs of Worn Distributor Cap and Rotor
Signs of Worn Distributor Cap and Rotor


How to Replace a Distributor Rotor and Cap | YourMechanic Advice

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$12044 – $33330

Part 1 of 3 Determining when to replace the distributor cap and rotor

Part 2 of 3 Preparing the vehicle for replacing the distributor cap and rotor

Part 3 of 3 Replacing the distributor cap and rotor

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How to Replace a Distributor Rotor and Cap | YourMechanic Advice
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Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Distributor Rotor and Cap | YourMechanic Advice

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$000

1 Engine misfires

2 Car doesn’t start

3 Check Engine Light comes on

4 Excessive or unusual engine noises

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Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Distributor Rotor and Cap | YourMechanic Advice
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Benefits Of Replacing An Older Ford Or GM Distributor | KarlKustoms.com

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  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for Benefits Of Replacing An Older Ford Or GM Distributor | KarlKustoms.com Updating Even If Your Distributor In Your Older Ford Or GM Vehicle Works Fine, Replacing It With A Newer One Can Be Beneficial – Here’s Why.
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What Is A Distributor

When Should You Replace Your Distributor

1 Better Engine Performance

2 Better Gas Mileage

3 Fewer Misfires

4 More Engine Power

5 Better Starting

What To Look For In A New Distributor For Your Ford Or GM Vehicle

Benefits Of Replacing An Older Ford Or GM Distributor | KarlKustoms.com
Benefits Of Replacing An Older Ford Or GM Distributor | KarlKustoms.com

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How to Replace a Distributor Cap and Rotor | GOFAR

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  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How to Replace a Distributor Cap and Rotor | GOFAR Updating Replacing the distributor cap and the rotor is something that your mechanic will charge you a lot of money for. Why don’t you try our step by step guide to do it yourself? If you are stuck, you can always use GOFAR  to contact the top-rated mechanics in your area.
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How to Replace a Distributor Cap and Rotor

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How to Replace a Distributor Cap and Rotor | GOFAR
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How to Inspect Distributor Cap and Rotor Condition (Part 2) – YouTube

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  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How to Inspect Distributor Cap and Rotor Condition (Part 2) – YouTube Updating How to Check for Worn Out Distributor Cap and Rotor on your Engine that may be causing TroubleDistributor, Cap, Rotor, Engine, Motor, Ignition, Ignition System, Dizzy, Spark, Spark Plug, Spark Plugs, Spark Plug Wires, Ignition Timing, Coil, Ignition Coil, Coils, Ignition Coils, Points, Condenser, Capacitor, Points and Condenser, Tune Up, Tuneup, Tune-Up, Start, Gas, Pick Up Coil, Pickup Coil, Reluctor, Sensor, Sensors, Distributor Curve, Spark Curve, Base Timing, Total Timing, Vacuum, Vacuum Advance, Inspect, Inspecting, HEI, High Energy System, HEI System, Module, Check, Checking
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How to Inspect Distributor Cap and Rotor Condition (Part 2) - YouTube
How to Inspect Distributor Cap and Rotor Condition (Part 2) – YouTube

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How often should I check/replace distributor cap and rotor ? and which one ? – Honda-Tech – Honda Forum Discussion

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  • Summary of article content: Articles about How often should I check/replace distributor cap and rotor ? and which one ? – Honda-Tech – Honda Forum Discussion If I remember correctly you’re supposed to check your cap and rotor, etc every 25k-30k and replace as needed. If you buy the autolite or other store brand you’ … …
  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How often should I check/replace distributor cap and rotor ? and which one ? – Honda-Tech – Honda Forum Discussion If I remember correctly you’re supposed to check your cap and rotor, etc every 25k-30k and replace as needed. If you buy the autolite or other store brand you’ … How,often,should,I,check,replace,distributor,cap,rotor,one,99, accord, accords, cap, car, change, check, checked, distributor, hitachi, oem, replace, replaced, rotor, wires, How often should I check/replace distributor cap and rotor ? and which one ?, Civic Honda, CRX, Del Sol, Integra, where is Honda, forum, Honda, Acura, turbo, exhaust, intake, import, ht, accord, honda-tech, honda tech, honda tech forum, crx, civic, s2000, sale, parts, tl, nsx, tsx, type-r, rsx, techHonda Accord (1990 – 2002) – How often should I check/replace distributor cap and rotor ? and which one ? – The car is at 85k miles now. I recently pulled out the the dist cap and rotor for examination and wasn’t sure if they need replacement or not. The rotor edge and the four contact points inside the cap seem to…
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 How often should I check/replace distributor cap and rotor ? and which one ? - Honda-Tech - Honda Forum Discussion
How often should I check/replace distributor cap and rotor ? and which one ? – Honda-Tech – Honda Forum Discussion

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Do I really need to replace distributor cap and rotor? (plugs, engine) – Automotive -Sports cars, sedans, coupes, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles, tickets, dealers, repairs, gasoline, drivers… – City-Data Forum

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  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for Do I really need to replace distributor cap and rotor? (plugs, engine) – Automotive -Sports cars, sedans, coupes, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles, tickets, dealers, repairs, gasoline, drivers… – City-Data Forum Most manufacturers would normally recommend that plugs, cap and rotor are changed every 30,000 miles or so, if you have no record of them having … Do,I,really,need,replace,distributor,cap,rotor,plugs,engine, Do I really need to replace distributor cap and rotor?, cities,forumI’m trying to figure out if I really need to replace my cap and rotor. I just popped off the cap and cleaned and inspected. They seem to be in good
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Do I really need to replace distributor cap and rotor? (plugs, engine) - Automotive -Sports cars,  sedans, coupes, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles, tickets, dealers, repairs, gasoline, drivers... -  City-Data Forum
Do I really need to replace distributor cap and rotor? (plugs, engine) – Automotive -Sports cars, sedans, coupes, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles, tickets, dealers, repairs, gasoline, drivers… – City-Data Forum

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We often get the question “Why should I replace the spark plug wires, distributor cap and rotor?” Here’s the answer. – Quality Automotive Servicing

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  • Summary of article content: Articles about We often get the question “Why should I replace the spark plug wires, distributor cap and rotor?” Here’s the answer. – Quality Automotive Servicing Spark plugs, wires, distributor caps and rotors break down and fail over time due to exposure to moisture, oil, grease and under hood … …
  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for We often get the question “Why should I replace the spark plug wires, distributor cap and rotor?” Here’s the answer. – Quality Automotive Servicing Spark plugs, wires, distributor caps and rotors break down and fail over time due to exposure to moisture, oil, grease and under hood … MaintenanceSpark plugs, wires, distributor caps and rotors break down and fail over time due to exposure to moisture, oil, grease and …
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 We often get the question
We often get the question “Why should I replace the spark plug wires, distributor cap and rotor?” Here’s the answer. – Quality Automotive Servicing

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Is it always a good idea to at least change the rotor and cap too when changing spark plugs? Why? What about spark plug wires? – Quora

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  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for Is it always a good idea to at least change the rotor and cap too when changing spark plugs? Why? What about spark plug wires? – Quora A. You don’t see so many distributor cap rotor arm set-ups these days. … What are some things to keep in mind when replacing spark plugs and wires? Q. Is it always a good idea to at least change the rotor and cap too when changing spark plugs? Why? What about spark plug wires? A. You don’t see so many distributor cap rotor arm set-ups these days. More individual coils in the spark plug caps a…
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Is it always a good idea to at least change the rotor and cap too when changing spark plugs? Why? What about spark plug wires? - Quora
Is it always a good idea to at least change the rotor and cap too when changing spark plugs? Why? What about spark plug wires? – Quora

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How Often To Change Distributor Cap And Rotor? – FWD/AWD 1998 and Prior – Volvospeed Forums

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  • Summary of article content: Articles about How Often To Change Distributor Cap And Rotor? – FWD/AWD 1998 and Prior – Volvospeed Forums – Change cap/rotor every 40-50K. Link to comment. Share on other sites. More sharing options. …
  • Most searched keywords: Whether you are looking for How Often To Change Distributor Cap And Rotor? – FWD/AWD 1998 and Prior – Volvospeed Forums – Change cap/rotor every 40-50K. Link to comment. Share on other sites. More sharing options. I replaced these during my stage zero back about 35K miles ago. I didn’t know if there was a rule of thumb or not as far as how often these two parts should be changed?
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How Often To Change Distributor Cap And Rotor? - FWD/AWD 1998 and Prior - Volvospeed Forums
How Often To Change Distributor Cap And Rotor? – FWD/AWD 1998 and Prior – Volvospeed Forums

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How to Replace a Distributor Rotor and Cap

For people who took auto shop in high school, replacing the distributor cap and rotor was one of the first mechanical repairs they’ll remember. As technology has improved, and electronic ignition systems have slowly become the norm, the lost art of replacing these critical parts found on nearly every vehicle on the road prior to the mid-2000s has become less commonplace. However, there are still millions of vehicles running strong on the highways of America that require this service be completed every 50,000 miles.

On older cars, trucks, and SUVs without full computerized electronic ignition systems, the distributor cap and rotor are vital for passing voltage from the ignition coil directly to each cylinder. Once the spark plug receives the electricity from the plug wires, the air/fuel mixture in the cylinder is ignited, which begins the combustion process. The coil supplies the power directly to the rotor and as the rotor spins, distributes this electricity to each cylinder by way of plug wires that are attached to the distributor cap. When the tip of the rotor passes a contact on the cylinder, the high voltage pulse goes from the coil to the cylinder through the rotor.

These components are exposed to high levels of voltage every time the engine runs and if they are not maintained and replaced on a regular basis, the engine efficiency can and often will suffer. During routine service, when the distributor cap and rotor are replaced, it’s customary to check the ignition timing to verify that everything is still aligned the way it should.

Like any other mechanical component, the distributor cap and rotor have a few indicators that they are worn out or damaged. In fact, as the image above indicates, there are several problems that can cause the distributor cap to fail including:

Small cracks in the housing

Broken spark plug wire tower

Excessive carbon tracks embedded on the distributor cap terminal

Burned distributor cap terminals

These two parts go hand in hand for replacement and maintenance, similar in many ways to oil and an oil filter. Since the distributor rotor and cap can go bad over time because they are located in a harsh environment, it is important to know the symptoms this part will give off before it completely fails.

Some of the common symptoms of a damaged or broken distributor cap or rotor may include the following:

The Check Engine Light is illuminated: The distributor cap and rotor are vital parts of the ignition system on most older vehicles on the road today. However, on most vehicles made after 1985, a Check Engine Light was connected to major components including the distributor and illuminates when a problem exists. In most cases, the Check Engine Light will come on when the distributor cap is cracked and has condensation inside, or if the electrical signal coming from the distributor is inconsistent.

The vehicle does not start: If the distributor cap or rotor are broken, voltage will be unable to flow to the spark plugs, which means the engine will not fire. It’s very common for both the rotor and distributor cap to fail at the same time; especially if the rotor fails first.

The engine idles rough: There are small electrodes on the bottom of the distributor cap called terminals. When these terminals become covered in carbon buildup or become burnt because of over exposure to voltage, the engine can idle and run very rough. Essentially, what’s happening is that the engine is skipping a cylinder from the firing order in this instance. For purposes of this HOW TO article, we’ll focus on the best recommended methods for replacing the distributor cap and rotor. However, it’s a good idea to purchase and review your service manual for exact steps if they are different for your vehicle.

Part 1 of 3: Determining when to replace the distributor cap and rotor

According to most service manuals, replacing the distributor cap and rotor together are recommended on most domestic and imports every 50,000 miles at a minimum. During routine tune-ups, which happen every 25,000 miles, the distributor cap and rotor are often inspected for premature signs of wear and tear and will be replaced if they are damaged. Although the distributor caps and rotors are designed differently based on the vehicle manufacturer, engine size and other factors, the process and steps for replacing them on most engines is rather similar.

In many cases, the reason why the distributor cap and rotor fail at the same time is that they work together to accomplish the same task; which is distributing voltage from the ignition coil to the spark plug. When the rotor begins to wear out, the bottom terminals on the distributor cap does the same. If the distributor cap becomes cracked, condensation can enter the inside of the cap, which will literally drown out the electrical signal.

Replacing the distributor cap and rotor at the same time should be completed every 50,000 miles, regardless of whether or not they are damaged. If your vehicle does not put on a lot of miles every year, it’s also a good idea to replace them every three years. This task is very simple to perform, as most vehicles with this set up have distributor caps that are very easy to access. Most service manuals suggest that this task should take about one hour to complete.

Warning: Anytime you are working with electrical components, you must remove the battery cables from the terminals. Always remove the positive and negative terminals before you remove any components on the vehicle. It’s is always recommended to fully review the manufacturers service manual before attempting to complete this job. As we’ve indicated above, the instructions below are general steps for replacing the distributor cap and rotor. If you do not feel comfortable completing this job, always defer to an ASE certified mechanic.

Part 2 of 3: Preparing the vehicle for replacing the distributor cap and rotor

When you decide to remove the distributor cap and rotor, there are a few things you need to accomplish before you actually start the job. The first step is to purchase a replacement distributor cap and rotor kit. Most OEM parts manufacturers sell these two items as a kit, to ensure they are both replaced at the same time. There are also several aftermarket part suppliers that also make kits for specific vehicles. In some cases, the kits will come with replacement hardware, gaskets and sometimes, new spark plug wires.

If your kits come with these items, it’s a good idea to use them all; especially the new bolts for securing the distributor cap and rotor. Some rotors fit freely on the distributor shaft; while others are secured with a screw. If your vehicle has a rotor secured with a screw; always use the new screw. According to most service manuals, the job of removing the distributor cap and rotor itself is only about one hour to complete. The most time consuming part of this job will be removing ancillary components that restrict access to the distributor. It’s also vital to take time to mark the location of the distributor, the distributor cap, spark plug wires and the rotor on the bottom of the distributor before it’s removed; and during the removal process. Failure to properly mark the wires and reinstall the new distributor cap exactly as the used one was removed can result in ignition problems.

To complete this job, you won’t have to raise the vehicle on a hydraulic lift or on jack stands. The distributor is typically located on the top of the engine or on the side of the engine. In most cases, the only part you’ll have to remove to gain access to it is the engine cover or the air filter housing.

In general, the materials you’ll need to remove and replace the distributor and the O-ring; after removing ancillary components will include the following:

Materials Needed

Clean shop rags

Replacement distributor cap and rotor kit

Screwdriver(s) flat and Phillips head

Socket set and ratchet

After collecting all these materials and reviewing the instructions set forth in your service manual, you should be ready to complete this job.

Part 3 of 3: Replacing the distributor cap and rotor

As with any service, replacing the distributor cap and rotor will begin with making sure you have clear access to all the tools and supplies you need to complete this task. You don’t have to jack the vehicle up or raise the vehicle on a hydraulic lift to complete this job. Please refer to your service manual for detailed instructions as the steps listed below are general steps.

Step 1: Remove battery cables: Remove the positive and negative battery cable and place them away from the battery terminals before proceeding.

Step 2: Remove engine cover and air filter housing: In many instances you’ll have to remove the engine cover and air filter housing in order to have free access to remove the distributor cap and rotor. Refer to your service manual for exact instructions on how to remove these components.

Step 3: Mark the distributor components: Before removing the distributor cap, you want to take some time to mark the location of each components. This is vital for consistency and to reduce the potential of misfire when you install the new rotor and distributor cap.

Mark the following individual components:

The spark plug wires: Using a marker or tape, mark the location of each spark plug wire as you are removing them. A good tip is to start at the 12 o’clock position on the distributor cap, and mark them in order in a clockwise motion. This will ensure that when you reinstall the spark plug wires on the new distributor cap they will be in order.

Step 4: Remove spark plug wires: After you’ve marked the spark plug wires remove the spark plug wires from the distributor cap.

Step 5: Remove distributor cap: Once the plug wires have been removed, you’ll be ready to remove the distributor cap. Typically the distributor is held in place by two or three bolts or a few clips on the side of the cap. Locate these bolts or the clips and remove them with a socket, extension and ratchet. Remove them one at a time then take the old distributor cap off the distributor.

Step 6: Mark the location of the rotor: When you remove the distributor cap you’ll see the rotor in the center of the distributor housing. The rotor will have a pointed end and a blunt end. Using a screw driver, place the screwdriver along the edge of your rotor as indicated in the image. This will help you mark where the “pointed end” of the new rotor should be placed.

Step 7: Remove the rotor screw and remove the rotor: On some distributors, the rotor will be secured to a small screw, typically in the middle of the rotor or along the edge. If your rotor has this screw, carefully remove the screw using a magnetized screw driver. You do NOT want this screw to fall into the distributor shaft, as that may find its way into the engine and create a huge headache for you.

If you have a rotor without a screw or once the screw has been removed, take the old rotor out of the distributor. Match it with the replacement one before you throw it away.

Step 7: Install new rotor: After removing the old rotor, you don’t usually need to perform any other maintenance. Some people like to use a can of compressed air to spray into the distributor to loosen any debris or excess carbon buildup. However when you install the new rotor, make sure to complete the following:

Reset the rotor in the precise location as the old rotor. Use the guide marks you completed in step 6 to verify that the pointed end is facing that direction.

Install the new screw from the kit in the rotor hole (if it has one) DO NOT USE THE OLD SCREW

Step 8: Install new distributor cap: Depending on the type of distributor cap you have, it can only be installed one or two potential ways. The holes where the screws secure the cap to the distributor or the clips attach must align. However, the distributor cap is not designed to only fit one way. As long as the clips or the screws align to the holes or places on the distributor cap, and the cap fits flush on the distributor, you should be fine.

Step 9: Reinstall spark plug wires and coil wire: When you marked the spark plug wires locations, you did that so it would be easier to install on the new cap. Follow the same pattern for installing the spark plug wires on the same tower where they were installed on the old distributor cap. The coil wire goes to the center post on the distributor cap.

Step 10: Replace engine cover and air filter housing.

Step 11: Reconnect battery cables.

Some mechanics believe it’s a good idea to check the ignition timing after you’ve replaced the rotor and the distributor cap. If you have the required tools and would like to complete this additional safety measure; by all means this is a good idea. However, it’s not required; especially if you’ve followed the steps above to ensure the rotor, distributor cap or spark plug wires were correctly installed.

When you have finished this task, the replacement job of the distributor cap and rotor has been completed. If you’ve reviewed the steps in this article and are not confident completing this project or need an extra set of professional hands to help fix the problem, contact YourMechanic.com today and one of our local ASE certified mechanics will be happy to assist you replace the distributor cap and rotor.

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Distributor Rotor and Cap

A running engine sends a large amount of electricity through the ignition coils to the rotor, which turns inside the distributor. The rotor routes the energy in a specific through the spark plug wires ultimately to the engine’s cylinders in the correct firing order.

The distributor rotor and cap keep the distributor’s contents separate from the engine and keep the distributor’s working parts clean and tidy – while supporting the incredibly high volts of energy and delivering them to the appropriate spark plugs. The spark plugs utilize the spark from the distributor to ignite the fuel mixture, which is what keeps the engine running.

High voltage runs through this entire distributor system during the operation of your vehicle, but if there’s an issue this voltage won’t get distributed to the correct spark plugs to ensure that your engine will run. Usually a faulty distributor rotor and cap will produce a few symptoms that alert the driver that service may be required.

1. Engine misfires

Engine misfires can occur for a number of reasons. Checking your distributor rotor and cap to see if they need to be replaced is one way to ensure that everything is in solid working order.

2. Car doesn’t start

When the distributor cap isn’t on tightly or is malfunctioning, the engine is unable to send the spark through the entire circuit required to move the cylinders – which ultimately make the car run.

3. Check Engine Light comes on

Your Check Engine light can mean a number of different things, but when you see this light on along with some of the other symptoms listed here, it’s time to call a professional to see what the code is from your car’s computer.

4. Excessive or unusual engine noises

Your vehicle may make some very strange noises if the distributor rotor and cap are malfunctioning – specifically because the cylinders will try to fire but fail. You might hear a tapping, clicking, or sputtering sound when the distributor rotor and cap are failing.

Any time you have routine service performed on your vehicle, ask that the ignition system be checked for defects or problems. If you experience any trouble starting your car get assistance from a qualified mobile automotive technician from YourMechanic.

Benefits Of Replacing An Older Ford Or GM Distributor

If you have an older Ford or GM vehicle, it likely has a distributor. You may want to consider replacing it soon. Even if your distributor works fine, replacing it with a newer one brings many benefits.

What Is A Distributor?

A distributor delivers electricity from the ignition coil to the spark plugs at exactly the right time. The distributor is driven by the camshaft. This method of driving the distributor also provides its basic timing. The coil feeds electricity to the distributor. A rotor inside the distributor distributes the electricity to the spark plugs. The spark plugs are connected to the distributor with spark plug wires.

When Should You Replace Your Distributor?

Image Credit: AlfsMustangGarage

As with anything else in your car, you can expect wear and tear over time on your distributor. A typical distributor housing and gear drive lasts the lifetime of the vehicle. Its components such as the rotor, cap, and points don’t last that long. On average, most people with an older vehicle need to replace these components every 10k-20k miles.

Even if the old distributor in your Ford or GM vehicle seems to be working OK, it’s a good idea to replace it with a newer one. A newer distributor has better technology that ensures more powerful ignition and more precise timing.

When you replace your older distributor with a newer model, it leads to several benefits:

1. Better Engine Performance

Older distributors simply don’t distribute power as well as more modern designs. The timing is not as precise, and there is variation in the amount of power delivered to each spark plug. The uneven distribution of power can lead to a few problems. For example, misfires and engine hesitation.

If you get a high quality distributor made for your vehicle, you’ll notice a big improvement in your engine’s performance. Your engine will run smoother and produce more power at all RPMs.

2. Better Gas Mileage

The better your engine’s performance, the better gas mileage you’ll get. It’s common for older distributors to fail to deliver energy evenly to all the spark plugs. If a spark plug doesn’t get the energy it needs to fire strongly, some of the fuel in that combustion chamber goes to waste. That can decrease the engine’s gas mileage. A modern distributor provides a strong, even current to all the spark plugs. If you drive your car or truck a lot, the gas mileage improvement can pay for the new distributor.

3. Fewer Misfires

The precise ignition timing the new distributor provides also helps the engine avoid misfires. A misfire means that one or more of your spark plugs isn’t firing exactly when it should. If your engine is misfiring, the misfires should be eliminated after you install a newer replacement distributor.

4. More Engine Power

A modern High Energy Ignition (HEI) distributor has a couple of key design features that help your engine make more power:

The coil is more than twice as powerful. Our HEI distributors put out 65,000 volts. The original coil that was installed in a vehicle with a points distributor put out 20,000 to 30,000 volts.

The coil in an HEI distributor is integrated into the distributor cap. This eliminates the short wire that was used to connect an old style coil to the distributor. The benefit of this is that there is almost no voltage drop between the coil and the spark plug wire.

More voltage means a more powerful spark. This allows the gap in the spark plug to be set wider. A wider gap means the spark itself is physically bigger, and a bigger spark causes the fuel to burn more thoroughly. This helps the engine make more power.

5. Better Starting

A more powerful spark also helps get the engine started more easily.

What To Look For In A New Distributor For Your Ford Or GM Vehicle

When you’re shopping for a new distributor, look for a high quality High Energy Ignition (HEI) distributor with:

High quality housing

Durable bushings

High-output capabilities

High quality terminals

Easy installation

HEI distributors made by Karl Performance Parts fit the bill. We build all our HEI distributors with high quality materials. Our HEI distributors come with:

High quality aluminum housing

Dual hardened steel bushings

Fully adjustable mechanical and vacuum advance

High output 7500+ RPM ignition module

High output 65,000 volt coil

Solid brass terminals

Easy one-wire hookup

Check out the HEI distributors we have for Ford and GM vehicles:

If you need help finding the right distributor for your Ford or GM vehicle, please contact us. We’re always happy to help!

So you have finished reading the how often to replace distributor cap and rotor topic article, if you find this article useful, please share it. Thank you very much. See more: benefits of replacing distributor cap and rotor, how to replace distributor cap and rotor chevy, distributor cap and rotor diagram, how to replace distributor cap and rotor, how to remove distributor cap chevy 350, how to align distributor rotor, how often to replace cap and rotor, where is a distributor cap located

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