Installing Small Block Distributor From Scratch in 340

[daveh]

Hey guys,

I'm installing my distributor after the engine rebuild and need a little direction.  I'm installing it on a 1969 340 small block.  The intake is off for now.  I need help installing my distributor and setting the timing. What is the best was to do it?

I will set it to about 10 degrees before TDC using the thumb in the #1 plug feeling for the compression.  How does the timing gear get oriented in the block and how does the distributor get dropped in?

Any and all information that you can give me is really appreciated.  Thanks

 

[1 Wild R/T]

gear orientation...

[1 Wild R/T]

Distributor orientation...

[Cudakiller70]

gear orientation...

Never seen that before, helpful. Thanks

[Chryco Psycho]

the gear orientation will be the same but with the intake off you can see if the valves are closed on #1 or #6 , with the valve closed on 1 the rotor should point to the #1 wire

[1 Wild R/T]

the gear orientation will be the same but with the intake off you can see if the valves are closed on #1 or #6 , with the valve closed on 1 the rotor should point to the #1 wire

I considered mentioning that but he said he'd bring it up on compression so I figure KISS... 

[Mpdlawdog]

 

[daveh]

Ok so after all of the information given in this thread.  Here  are the steps. 

IN ORDER

1. Bring engine to 12 degrees before TDC.
2. Install distributor gear with the slotted portion facing the #1 intake bolt.
3. Install the distributor with the rotor facing the #1 spark plug.

Sound about right? 

Thanks

[1 Wild R/T]

Yes, thats the procedure..... Is it running yet?  If not why not?

[daveh]

Cute I still have ithe engine and the suspension on a jig ready to slide under the car. I need to put the headers on then put it under the car. Work keeps getting in the way.   

[1 Wild R/T]

Back in 95 the company I worked for sold out to a competitor... New owners fired everyone & then offered us our jobs back with no benefits, no seniority & 30% lower pay.... Needless to say I didn't take their offer... Which left me with plenty of time off just at the point my car was ready to be assembled....