- Disconnect the high tension wire from the top of the distributor and the
coil.
- The distributor cap is retained by two spring clips. Insert a screwdriver
under their ends and release them. Lift off the cap with the spark plug wires
attached. Inspect the inside of the cap. Wipe it clean with a rag and check
for burned contacts, cracks and carbon tracks. A carbon track shows as a dark
line running from one terminal to another. It cannot be successfully removed,
so replace the cap if it has one of these. Generally, a cap and rotor will
last 36,000 miles (58,000 km).
- Remove the rotor from the distributor shaft by pulling it straight up. Examine
the condition of the rotor. If it is cracked or the metal tip is excessively
worn or burned, it should be replaced. Clean the metal tip with a clean cloth,
but don't file it.
- Pry open the contacts of the points with a screwdriver and check the condition
of the contacts. If they are excessively worn, burned or pitted, they should
be replaced.
- If the points are in good condition, adjust them and reinstall the rotor
and the distributor cap. If the points need to be replaced, follow the replacement
procedure given next.