C2 Distributor Question

[Eugene B.]

Members,
Looking for information about the distributor wire retainer, clip and hex-head bolt. The '65 TIM & JG states that the formed wire retainer is black. Does not mention the hold-down clip or bolt.

My wire retainer, clip and bolt are all engine orange. This makes sense to me since the distributor was in the motor when the motor assembly was painted. I've seen posts that talk about the distributor being covered with a can type masking device, but no additional details. My distributor also has a tiny band of orange paint around the base where it is slightly above the block.

Advice from the experts will be greatly appreciated.

Regards,
Gene

[William C.]

Re: C2 Distributor Question

Nothing wrong with some orange paint on an engine with a cast iron intake covering the bolt/wire. If unpainted, the wire will appear dark in color.

[Eugene B.]

Re: C2 Distributor Question

Bill,
Thank you for your reply to my question.

Regarding the wire hold down, clip and hex head bolt, they are "heavily" painted engine orange. They look like they were hit hard with paint. No sign of black or dark color. Not even under the wire hold down where the clip was.

What color do you think the clip and bolt were when initially installed?

Thanks again,

Gene

[William C.]

Re: C2 Distributor Question

Bolt usually black could be oxide or "pickled and Oiled" finish and the wire and bent metal part under the bolt always look like bare steel when I get the paint & grease off them.