Distributor (models with one overhead camshaft) — removal and installation (Opel Vectra A)

Note: Before you begin, see. Chapter 3. To check the ignition timing on 14 NV and 16SV engines, you will need a tachometer and a stroboscope.

Removal

1. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.

2. Remove the breaker-distributor cover as described in Chapter 17.

3. Disconnect the distributor wiring (see illustrations).





4. On 14 NV models, disconnect the vacuum line from the diaphragm block on the side of the distributor.

5. If installing an old distributor, align the alignment marks between the distributor housing and the camshaft housing so that the distributor is in its original position.

6. Turn the crankshaft. This can be done with a wrench on the bolt on the crankshaft pulley, or by engaging high gear and pushing the car back or forward. Set cylinder #1 to ignition. Cylinder #1 is considered to be set to ignition when:

• a) The corresponding timing marks are aligned. On 14 NV models, the pointer on the rear timing belt cover should be positioned midway between the two notches in the crankshaft pulley. On 16 NV models, the pointer on the rear timing belt cover should be aligned with the notch in the crankshaft pulley;
• b) The tip of the distributor rotor is directed to the clamp of the high-tension wire of cylinder No.1 in the cover of the breaker-distributor
• c) On a Bosch distributor, the distributor rotor is aligned with a notch in the distributor housing. On a Lucas distributor, the distributor rotor is approximately aligned with the TDC arrow marked on the distributor housing (see illustration).

7. Unscrew the nut, remove the clamping bar, then remove the distributor from the camshaft housing (see illustrations).







8. If required, the distributor can be disassembled as described in Chapter 20.



9. Check the condition of the O-ring on the rear of the distributor housing, replace if necessary.

Installation

10. Begin installation by checking that cylinder #1 remains on the ignition stroke. The corresponding timing marks should be aligned. If the engine was turned over when the distributor was removed, check that cylinder #1 is on the ignition stroke. To do this, remove the spark plug for cylinder #1 and cover the hole with your finger. Turn the crankshaft until you feel pressure, which indicates that piston #1 has begun to rise on the compression stroke. Continue turning the crankshaft until the corresponding timing marks are aligned.

11. Rotate the distributor rotor to the position marked in step 6c and hold the rotor in this position while installing the distributor. Note that the distributor drive shaft engages the camshaft only in this position. If installing an old distributor, align the marks made on the distributor housing and the camshaft housing.

(Material published on the website OPELBOOK)

12. Install the bar and nut, but do not tighten the nut completely yet.

13. On the Bosch distributor, remove the distributor rotor, then install the plastic shield and distributor rotor.

14. On 14 NV models, reconnect the vacuum tube to the diaphragm assembly.

15. Connect the distributor wiring.

16. Install the breaker-distributor cover as described in Chapter 17.

17. Connect the negative battery cable.

18. Check and, if necessary, adjust the ignition timing as described in Chapter 21.