2.3 16v Distributor removal!

[Bob 2316]

Hi i have managed to drill out the head on the seized distributor cap screw and lift off the cap (which was broken ). i am now applying penetrating oil to the exposed thread in the hope that after a while i can get a pair of grips on it and turn the screw out. Failing that i will have to remove the distributor and do as Orlando 300 suggested and hold it in a vice and turn it out.

one question: (as i know very little about these things and am going on a 190e haynes manual and a limited box of tools!)

do i have to turn the crankshaft to bring number 1 piston to TDC before i can remove the distributor without losing its alignment? or can i just remove the distributor after marking position of the distributor clamp bolt and rotor arm?

thanks for any input you can offer

rgds

Bob

 

[Orlando 300E]

Hello Bob,
I can?t recall discussing your distributor before! -Last time was the brakes & ASR :? .
Doesn?t matter , I presume you now have only the thread showing proud from the distributor body -the big question is how much meat is left of the thread?
If you have enough to get two bolts onto it, you can lock the first one against the second -good one for exhaust manifold studs.
If that is not possible, reach for your grips.
Make sure your grips have good teeth so that when they are clamped on tight, the teeth bite into the thread. Best grip from placing vice grip at 90 degrees from thread axis.
Penetrating oil is also your friend! So don?t be skimp on it.
One trick, might work, is firstly turning the thread the wrong way -tightening up! This sometimes loosens the corrosion holding the thread stuck. Only give it a quarter or half turn -no more. Then more WD40 or 3in1 (the graphite one if you can get it). That should do it!
If that doesn?t work, my personal opinion is that the stud will be unlikely to come off in a bench vice. You my end up having to have it drilled out & retapped.
When it comes to removal of the distributor I can?t help you there -don?t now your engine or car. I am sure there are far more qualified people out there to help on that one.
Best wishes & good luck
Orlando

 

[Bob 2316]

Hi Orlando 300

my apologies to Richard.wilson who had replied to my Question re: removal of a distributor stuck screw, i had you confused with Orlando!!

thank for your input, i have for the time being as i had to move the car, simply replaced the rotor arm and have slipped the new cap over the stuck screw shaft. screwed down the new screw at the back and secured the front with one of those non slip plastic ties! Bob the Bodge or what!!

i have been in contact with the main supplier of Helicoil and i think i will probably cut off the screw and drill it out and insert a Helicoil, if i am unable to free up the thread soon.