MSD 8503 Ford 289, 302 E-Curve Pro-Billet Distributor Installation User Manual
Page 5
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
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Note: When installing the distributor for the first time, it is recommended to place the switches in
the locked-out timing position. This will assist you in setting the timing curve by ensuring
that the total timing is correct.
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 5).
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.
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. A 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. Proceed to wiring the distributor as shown in Figures 6 and 7. Review the starting and tuning tips
information and install the Timing Tape as shown on page 7 before starting the engine.
Figure 5 Marking the Rotor Location.
INSTALLING THE DISTRIBUTOR