MSD 8383 Ford Y Block Ready-to-Run Distributor Installation - Manual (Page 5)

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS 5
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1. Remove the existing distributor cap
without disconnecting any of the spark
plug wires.
2. With the cap off, crank the engine until
the rotor is aimed at a fixed point on the
engine or firewall. Note this position by
making a mark (Figure 9).
3. Place the distributor cap back on and
note which plug wire the rotor is pointing
to. MARK THE SPARK PLUG WIRES and
remove the distributor cap.
4. Disconnect the wiring from the distributor.
5. Loosen the distributor hold down clamp
and slide the clamp out of the way.
6. Lift the distributor out of the engine.
Note that the rotor rotates as you lift
the distributor out. This is due to the
helical cut gear and should be taken into
consideration when installing the new
distributor.
Figure 9 Marking the Rotor Location.
INSTALLING THE DISTRIBUTOR
7. Install the O-ring and apply a liberal amount of the supplied lubricant to the distributor gear.
8. Install the distributor making sure that the rotor comes to rest pointing at the fixed mark. If the
distributor will not fully seat with the rotor pointing to the marked position, you may need to rotate
the oil pump shaft until the rotor lines up and the distributor fully seats.
9. Position and tighten the hold down clamp onto the distributor.
10. Install the distributor cap and spark plug wires one at a time to ensure correct location. An optional
wire retainer is supplied to secure the wires in place. Align the mounting bosses and use the
supplied 1.5" self-tapping Phillips screws to hold the retainer in place.
11. Page 8 shows how to set the rev limiter and connect the tachometer.