Stuck Thunderbolt distributor rotor

G

griff4

Member
Joined
Dec 31, 2013
RO Number
33534
Messages
34
Hi guys. It's distributor cap time again. Has anyone a new method of removal for those pesky Merc thunderbolt distributor rotors? I have had to destroy them in the past. Thanks, Griff
 
I think some folks have reported luck using heat directed at the rotor, so that might be worth a shot before packing the housing with protective cloth & using the Dremel disc.
 
Heat gun but be careful monitor temps with an IR temp gun, then coat the distributor shaft with grease when installing to make the next removal easier. Never had this problem with my Prestolite points distributor.
 
Tap it down then pry it up. Antisieze next time?
 
Ya need something on there to prevent seizing. Not one of Merc's better ideas I guess, like plastic drain plugs that break off in the engine and water distribution housings that crack and leak on the "easy drain" system.
 
Thanks guys. I followed the service manual and using 2 screwdrivers pried up equally. Tapped it a little with a small hammer prior to prying up. The problem is rust on the shaft. The shaft material should be more rust resistant. I smeared a light amount of silicone grease on the shaft prior to reassembly. Thanks all for your expert advice. Griff
 
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