MSD 85501 Chevy V8 Pro-Billet Distributor Installation - Manual

Important: Read these instructions before attempting the installation.
Parts Included:
1 - Pro-Billet Distributor
1 - Rotor, PN 8467
1 - Distributor Cap, PN 8433
1 - Wire Retainer
2 - 1.5" Self Tapping Screws
2 - 10-32 x 3/4" Socket Head Screws
Note: The terminals of this Distributor require spark plug style terminals. You may need to change the
terminals and boots of your wires. MSD offers two kits, PN 8849 or PN 8848 that are supplied with
nine boots and terminals.
Note: MSD Gear (PN 8531) is required for replacement due to the .500" diameter shaft.
Note: A replacement Black cap is available as PN 84333.
TIMING FUNCTIONS
Note: The PN 85501 does not have a mechanical advance.
Before continuing with the installation, here are a few definitions you should be aware of:
Initial Timing: This is the base timing (also referred to as idle timing) of the engine before the centrifugal
advance begins.
Centrifugal Advance: The centrifugal (or mechanical) advance mechanism is made up of weights,
springs, advance cams, and an advance stop bushing. The amount and rate of advance that your
distributor is capable of is determined by the centrifugal timing. If you ever wish to lock out the
centrifugal advance, refer to the centrifugal advance section.
Total Timing: This is the total of the initial timing plus the centrifugal advance added together. Example:
10° Initial + 25° centrifugal = 35° Total Timing. (When checking Total timing, disconnect the vacuum
canister and plug the vacuum source.)
Note: MSD Distributors are supplied with the heavy (slow) advance springs installed. This is to prevent
detonation in certain applications. Review the information on pages 2-4 to determine the best
advance curve for your application.
1 - Advance Kit (PN 85561, 8547 only)
1 - Gasket
1 - Tube of Gear Lubricant
2 - O-Rings
WARNING: Before installing the MSD Distributor, disconnect the battery cables. When
disconnecting the battery cables, always remove the Negative (-) cable first
and install it last.
MSD Pro-Billet Chevrolet V8 Distributor
with Slip Collar, PN 85561
Extra Tall, PN 8547
with Locked-Out Timing, PN 85501
M S D
• W W W . M S D P E R F O R M A N C E . C O M • ( 9 1 5 ) 8 5 7 - 5 2 0 0 • F A X ( 9 1 5 ) 8 5 7 - 3 3 4 4
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