DIY: 5sfe Distributor Diagnosis

[Mister_Perkins]

Tools Needed:

12MM Socket
Extension
Ratchet
Feeler Gauge
Phillips head screw driver
Digital Multimeter

First Remove the distributor. Disconnect the pigtail harnesses from the distributor (2), and remove spark plugs from motor. (This step is kind of important to easily remember firing order .. keep them attached to the distributor cap).

After removing harnesses and spark plugs from motor, there are two 12MM bolts holding the distributor in place. Remove both bolts and pull distributor out.

there are three Phillips screws holding the distributor cap. Remove all three of these and pull cap off. Remove the rotor, and plastic housing covering the coils.




Take a few seconds to inspect the distributor cap. Look for cracks and the over all condition of the cap. If cracked, or looks damaged replace the cap.





Grab your digital multimeter and measure the resistance of G1 and G Pins. Resistance cold should be 185-275 ohms.




Next, measure the resistance of the NE+ and NE- pins. Resistance cold should be 370-550 ohms.



If either the G or NE pins are not within spec, replace the Distributor housing.




Next, we are going to measure the air gap on the pickup coil. Grab your Feeler gauge, and place it between the pickup coil projection and the signal rotor. Air Gap should be between .02mm - .04mm (0.008in. - 0.006in.)





If air gap is not within spec, replace the distributor housing.


Addition:

Checking the Primary and Secondary Coils on distributor:

Using a multimeter and the chart below, measure the resistance on the primary coil and secondary coil (Pictured below)


Primary Coil


Secondary Coil

[Luckynumber5]

AHa, nice as usual The resistance tests can be VERY handy for diagnosing frustrating problems.

[sabbates]

Do you have to mark the rotor before removing the distributor?

Won't the timing be messed up if you don't?

[Mister_Perkins]

No, you just have to set the motor to TDC and set the rotor to Spark plug #1 before cranking it.

Most caps are labeled with the rotor cap:

[RichieRichJP]

*Says to self* It sure would be sweet if there was a DIY with the complete seal replacement

[NapalmFTW]

Resurrecting this thread.. but when reinstalling the dizzy should there be RTV on the mating surfaces? The previous owner/mechanic has tried to solve an oil leak by coating the distributor mating surface with RTV.

[Luckynumber5]

No just lightly lube the o ring. If it leaks that o ring may be the culprit

[tedmich]

nice write up, good (BIG!) pictures, BUT I believe the air gap is 0.4 – 0.2 mm (0.008 – 0.006 in.), as 0.02mm would be very hard to measure!