Distributor orientation - can it be changed?

[craig1410]

Hi,
Is it okay to change the orientation of the distributor to change where the vacuum advance mechanism is located so that I can more easily route the top radiator hose away from the thermostat housing? If so, how can I go about this most easily without completely losing my ignition timing (I accept I will need to re-check it for accuracy) and without incurring alignment problems between rotor arm and post?

I'm hoping I can simply loosen the clamp and turn the body without disengaging the oil pump drive and then just move my plug leads round one or two places as required. I can then do static timing followed by dynamic. Is it that simple or have I overlooked something?

Advice most welcome.

Craig.

[harvey]

Is it that simple or have I overlooked something?

I'd say that was about it. (Although the vac unit will probably foul itself on something......)

[RoverP6B]

Hello Craig,

It is my understanding that the Lucas distributors intended for installation into Land Rover or Range Rovers have a different orientation when fitted.

The vacuum advance module will be roughly shifted 90 degrees in an anti clockwise direction.

Ron.

[kiwicar]

Hi
It is as you described, simplest to do without getting lost if you do it with cylinder 1 at TDC on the firing stroke then take the cap off, turn the distributor body to where you want it, (without turning the engine) pull all the leads off the cap, put the cap back on and starting with plug lead 1 at the rotor arm tip re-instate the plug leads in order.
Best regards
Mike

[ChrisJC]

Left is Range Rover, right is SD1.

Chris.

[craig1410]

Hi guys,

Thanks for all you replies.

Harvey, yes you are probably right - maybe I'll just ditch the vac unit...

Ron, My dizzy is the Opus type and what I need to achieve is pretty much as you describe - a 90 degree anti-clock shift. If only I had a landy dizzy!

Kiwicar, I will give what you suggest a try at the weekend.

ChrisJC, these appear to be later dizzy's than mine as they have the electronics on the outside and mine is on the inside.

Thanks guys, will give it a try and report back.
Craig.