63 corvette tach drive distributor
I am looking for a source for a detailed service manual for a 63 tach drive distributor. I have the distributor apart but I do not remember details on the re-assembly (for items like the baseplate and its associated ground wire connection). Details and or source for a detailed manual appreciated.
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Re: 63 corvette tach drive distributor
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Re: 63 corvette tach drive distributor
1963 Corvette Shop Manual and later COMs.
DukeComment
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Re: 63 corvette tach drive distributor
I disagree with some of Dave's recommendations, particularly regarding the grease well. It appears that early on GM may have used some kind of solid absorbant material with oil (basically homemade "grease"), but later replaced it with a special grease that was available through both GMPD and Delco distribution channels - 1960954 Distributor and Starter Motor Grease. Note the word "distributor", and the only "grease" application is the upper bushing grease well for non-Corvette distributors, plus the tach and FI pump drive for Corvette distributors. The felt washer lubrication is oil.
Grease is a formulation of solids suspended in oil, however, over time the oil will drain and evaporate leaving behind a flaky solid material, which is often observed when disassembling old distributors that have likely never been disassembled since their original manufacture.
The 1960954 other primary application is starter motor bushings. In lieu of 1960954 use a full synthetic base (the oil evaporates more slowly than a mineral oil base) NGLI #2 grease such as Mobil 1. Also use this for the tach and FI pump drive gears.
I don't believe the OE grease seal is available any longer from GMPD or Delco, and the current NAPA replacement is just a flat nylon washer, not the "cupped" original seal, however, the original can be removed carefully and reinstalled since it is not subject to wear from the shaft. It just seals the grease well against the distributor housing.
I believe the felt washer is still available, but they typically are in decent condition and can be reused. Just soak in solvent and squeeze until they are clean, then soak in oil and squeeze out the excess until they are still wet with oil, but not dripping.
It's a good idea to overhaul the distributor every 50K miles or 20 years, whichever comes first. Proper operation of the distributor - an accurately timed spark for all operating conditions is critical to obtaining peak performance and fuel economy. The distributor is the most overlooked component on the engine, and few have received much over the ensuing decades other than new points and condensers.
The distributor can also fail suddenly due to breakage of the breaker plate ground wire. NAPA offers an inexpensive repair kit than can be installed without removing the distributor.
I've discussed these subjects in great detail over the last several years. The search function is your friend.
DukeComment
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Re: 63 corvette tach drive distributor
When looking at the distributor assembly drawing where does the plate ground wire (free loose end) with the wire lug attach?Comment
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Re: 63 corvette tach drive distributor
It attaches to the outer most VAC mounting screw. It should be looped around in such a manner that when the plate is moved by the VAC it doe not restrict the movement, rather follows along freely.
I just happen to have my distributor out now to replace my plug wire brackets to which the top ignition shield mounts. I didn't want to remove it, but you can't get a good wrench on the coil bracket manifold mounting bolt to re-tighten it with the distributor installed (least wise I don't have a tool for it). I changed my brackets back to my original re-furbished pieces in order to get the shield to mount better (more freely). I hated wrestling with the shield each time I wanted to access the distributor or coil. The repo or NOS pieces I put on in the mid-70's never fit to well.
Stu FoxComment
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Re: 63 corvette tach drive distributor
Make that "too well".
I'm considering a tear down to cheek my bushings and cross shaft. Doing a parts price check now. Today is a one day only 13% discount with C.C..
Stu FoxComment
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Re: 63 corvette tach drive distributor
The OE seal is available from C Central & others. The "grease" was sawdust mixed with oilComment
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Re: 63 corvette tach drive distributor
Pulled my distributor today to tighten my coil bracket mounting bolt. Checked my shaft end play which seems ok to maintain my electronic pickup gap. Also, I removed my cross shaft for inspection. It looked ok, as far as I could tell. Cn someone tell me what my side gear cross gear should look like after 47,000 miles? All the teeth looked even with a flat surface across them. The cable end did look rounded out some (not real square). The depression inside where the gear end rides looked evenly worn (not too deep). What should I be looking for to determine whether I should rehab or not?
Stu FoxComment
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