distributor gear removal

[Mark H.]

I am putting a Pertronix electronic ignition kit in my '65. In order to get the gap between the magnet ring and the ignitor module (which should be between and 0.010 and 0.060") you need to install washers here and there, per the instructions.

Problem is that I will need to put a shim between the gear and the distrib. housing. To do so you need to remove that pressed-in pin just below the gear. How on earth do you get that thing out ? I've trying punching it out easy and as hard as I could bring myself to do (in fear of breaking the thing). Any ideas ?

Thanks, Mark

[Howard M.]

Re: distributor gear removal

Mark:
Use a mini-grinder to remove the peened over material of the pin so that it's flush with the gear O.D. At that point, you should be able to see the outline of the pin in the gear. Support the gear and either press the pin out (best way) or drive it out with a punch. If all else fails, the pin can be carefully drilled out. Reassembly will require a roll pin replacement.

[Chuck R.]

Re: distributor gear removal

If your using a pointed punch instead of a drift, then your actually spreading the roll pin tighter into the bore.

A drift is flat on the end and comes in sizes that will match up exactly with the outside diameter of the roll pin.

If you have pounded on the pin to the point where it's visibly swelled, then I would also grind/cut it down so that it is flush with the gear's shoulder.

Then with the proper sized drift, a couple of solid strikes should get the roll pin to come out and discard it. You should be able to pick up a replacement at your local hardware store.

Chuck