Distributor dismantling problem - Help !

roland · #1 (**permalink**) 10-25-2004, 08:38 AM

Hello everyone..
In the midst of my restoration, I dismantled the distibutor and cleaned it.
Reminder: PO put a 1974 2 liter engine with Marelliplex in my 69 spider.
The distibutor came out fine. Everything seems of EXCEPT the advance mechanism does not seem to function (ie: rotate).
1. Is that normal for a Marelliplex (intentionnaly glued or stuck) ? I assume that is not intended though.
2. How do i try to unstick it ? (already tried to gently tap with a large piece of wood on the end of the shaft but nothing happens)
3. Does the advance mechanism shaft just slide in to the pick-up + rotor platform center piece ?

What should I do ? Any ideas ?

Also can I survive with my pick-up module lead corrosion. Engine worked with it. Life expectance of pick up leads ?

Thanks

Roland

roland · #2 (**permalink**) 10-25-2004, 08:40 AM

Here is the picture..
Roland

ps: I found this marelliplex photo on line and notice it has a vaccum advance contraption thing (on side of distributor). I don't have that. Is that normal ?

roland · #3 (**permalink**) 10-25-2004, 08:58 AM

Is this a stupid question: Do I even need spark advance on this engine ?

roland · #4 (**permalink**) 10-26-2004, 03:21 AM

Anybody have any input on this ?

Roland

**papajam** · #5 (**permalink**) 10-26-2004, 05:54 AM

Yes, but not off the top of my head. I'll need to take apart a spare Marelli to see if I can figure it out. Might not be 'til the weekend though.

**ossodiseppia** · #6 (**permalink**) 10-26-2004, 08:08 AM

I can't remember how the top portion comes out either. The wires to the trigger device are shot. I would just replace it with a new one. I'm not sure who carries them on your side of the pond. You can get them at most any parts supplier over here.

International Auto has them.

Oh the one that is pictured with the vacuum advance is from a later model car. Those can be made to work on an older car, but it's a bit of a pain. Yours is probably fine, just needs a new pick up and a good cleaning.

roland · #7 (**permalink**) 10-28-2004, 04:54 AM

I finally got it unstuck .... Had to bath it in WD40 for 2 days and by forcing it a little it finally started moving.
Well it had some rust+crud built up .. probably moisture from under the cap (hope not from the engine oil.. if so what else could it have wrecked ??).
Here is a picture or the spark advance shaft disassembled .. hope it may help others one day..
Jim and Osso many thanks for your jelp.

Roland