changing points on an '86 fourtrak 2.0 ltr. is it tricky???

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Hi there,

Tomorrow I'm going to change the distributor cap, rotor arm and the points. I have already put in new spark plugs and HT leads.

As there's no Haines manual and I'm used to Diesel Land Rovers please could you let me know how easy the points are to do? I have bought a feeler gauge and believe the correct setting is 1mm. Is that correct?

Thanks all,

James

Contacts.

It is easy provided you know how to set the engine timing correct to degrees btdc. You must first ask for a member to give you the engine timing degree btdc - I do not have the degrees btdc. Do not start until you know the setting.

1. Remove 'number 1' spark plug - the cylinder nearest the radiator.
2. Put a finger over the plug hole.
3. By hand/or push in first gear, turn the engine slowly and feel for compression stroke : keep your finger over plug hole and feel the pressure. On maximum compression the engine would be about to 'spark'. NB ... engine revolves twice - exhaust then compression. You need the compression stroke with piston at maximum stroke. Leave engine as compressed.
4. Note [for refitting] the relative position of the distributor. Before releasing the distributor - MOST IMPORTANT YOU MUST NOTE THE POSITION OF THE ROTOR ARM IN RELATION TO THE CARBON BRUSHES IN THE DISTRIBUTOR's CAP ..... NOTE TO WHICH CARBON BRUSH/HT LEAD THE ROTOR POINTS. WHEN REPLACING THE DISTRIBUTOR THIS SETTING MUST BE RETURNED.
5. Remove the distributor from the engine.Dismantle and replace contacts. [also clean/lightly oil the centrifugal weights if you can access then within the distributors body] Fix and set contact breaker gap to 1mm before replacing the distributor.
6. Reconnect the distributor in origional position. Now twist the distributor body until the contact points JUST close. Tighten the distributor. Fit the distributor cap and CHECK ITS POSTION MATCHES THE PREVIOUS SETTING AS IN [4] ABOVE. If not in correct position remove the distributor and reposition it.
7. Engine can now be turned by hand. Set the flywheel to recommended degree bftc. Use a strob light or 12v bulb to check the engine timing is correct. Adjust if necessary by twisting the distributor ... retighten when correct.

Job is easy if you know what you are doing! Get the timing incorrect and the engine will be too advanced, retarded, or will not start. If you know a friendly diy expert, get him/her to assist.