8N Side Mount Distributor

The end play on the shaft is about .030 - out of tolerance. Also, the guide pins on the advance weights have slots worn into them where they have rubbed against the guide on the shaft. The lobes look fine.

I probably need to replace the shaft and the advance mechanism. For $120 in parts, though, I thought I might try to repair them first.

Anyone ever tried to press out the guide pins on the advance weights and replace them? How about machining a new bushing and riveting it in place to bring the end play back into tolerance?

Suggestions appreciated!

With all due respect, if you can't fix it yourself, or know a machinist that will do it for free (or nearly), bit the bullet and buy a new one. Considering the shop rate for most any machine shop, they will not even get started on rebuilding your old distributor for $120.

You won't believe how nice the engine will run when the distributor shaft runs true and the points open and close as they should.

After 50+ years, spring for the "gold". Your N deserves that new distributor.

Regards,
David

There is also no substitute for experience...so I guess I'll try to fix it and get me some in the process.

It sounds like you could use the services of a talented machinist. Ask around your area and where you work to find one, you should be able to take the distributer to him and find out what can be done for it and approximately what it will cost to have it done.

If you can, get a hold of others he has worked for and find out how reliable he is. You don't want a guy that does a bang up job only to find out it'll take him 2 years to do it.

Good luck.

Mike

I may end up buying a new distributor, but I'm going to give this one he!! before I do it...

Thanks again,

Patrick