Setting points gap

[Kevin Morris]

My '72 350/200hp still has the original single-point distributor. My question is, can anyone tell me how to use the "window" in the distributor cap, and a dwell meter, to set the gap on the points?

Kevin #39927

[Mike Yager]

Re: Setting points gap

If you have a shop manual or chilton's manual, it should tell you. Also, if there are often instructions with the dwell meter.

I am doing this from memory as its not something I do every day but you want to get the points on the "lobe" so that they are in the full open position. This is best done before removing the old points. Install new points setting the gap with a feeler gauge to the initial setting. Be sure to lub points where they rub the distributor. Put cap and rotor on, hook up dwell meter and timing light. You should be able to start the car although it will probably run rough. Set dwell to specs by accessing the screw through the window in the distributor cap. Once set, then set the timing.

Again, this is from memory but I think that is everything. I always follow the manual as a checklist.

[Kevin Morris]

Re: Setting points gap

Mike, what shop manual would you recommend, and where can I obtain one?

[Floyd B.]

Re: Setting points gap

Kevin,

You can obtain a 1966 - 82 Corvette Shop Manual from the NCRS Store on this site or any of the online bookstores, such as Amazon. For even more gory detail, you can obtain a '74 GM Passenger Car Shop Manual from any number of online used book dealers. It will cost you though.

[Bryan L.]

Re: Setting points gap

this is from memory too, however fuzzy it may be. I think the gap for the points is around .016 for new points, around .019 for used, or vice versa. The dwell using a meter should be between 28-32 degrees.

BL

[Wayne P.]

Re: Setting points gap

No need to gap the points with a feeler gage on distributors that have access doors. Close enough out of the box to start. Insert an allen wrench and turn left or right while watching the dwell meter. As stated your are looking for 30'dwell +or- 2'. My memory says attach the red wire of the dwell meter to the distirbutor side of the coil and attach the black to ground somewhere. Make sure the meter is set for 8 cylinder.

[Bryan L.]

Re: Setting points gap

I've still got a couple of the old screwdrivers with the flexible shaft and the Allen head that were used for setting GM points. Setting the dwell with those is a piece of cake. I know a young kid who is into Mustangs and jap cars and came over one day. I held it up and asked him if he knew what it was, he didn't have a clue.

BL