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if you use a tfi wrench there will be no problem, I've done it loads of times. you can get one at any autoparts store for less than $10 you don't even need to pull the distributor cap to get the module out.
yes there are (2) 5.5mm??...one on each side. {get the little wrench for the job, save yourself the headaches.} the bolts are in recessed pockets, once you look at a new one (TFI) it will be pretty clear.if you can replace the ignition module on a 87 ranger's, 4x4, ignition module, that's on the distributor, without having to remove the distributor cap, as you say...
if that's possible, apparently, the distributor's igniton module must slide in to the side of the distribuor, is that correct??
I have never replaced mine, yet, that's why I'm asking, incase I have to, some day...
are the bolts, that hold the ignition module in place, hard to get at... I'm assuming they are on the side of the distributor, close to where the wiring harness plugs into the igniton module, is my assumption correct...
................................................................................................yes there are (2) 5.5mm??...one on each side. {get the little wrench for the job, save yourself the headaches.} the bolts are in recessed pockets, once you look at a new one (TFI) it will be pretty clear.
I think the repair manual recommends that you disconnect the battery cable before starting. this also will clear any stored code/s that maybe present in the engine computer.
unplug from harness.
Once the little bolts/ screws are removed, the TFI (aka ~ignition module), slides straight down, aprox 1/4-3/8"...to clear the (3) inline female electrial spades. this maybe/should be a bit stiff...meaning with resistance.
once this is clear, it will freely move as soon as you get it in your hands it will be clear....clean the mounting area well for the new part.
place diealectric grease/compound on the back, where it mounts to the Distributor, of the new TFI. This helps insulate from heat and moisture. Most should come with a little tube of this grease..if not ask for it.
Hope that helps
....................................................................................................one thing not mentioned, clean the back of the distributor with something like brakleen on a rag to get all of the old dielectric grease off there. you want a good solid connection so the heat dissipation is equal.
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good information to know... thanks...
when you're installing the new ignition module, is it very hard to line the module's plug in tabs, to where they need be inserted, inside the distributor...
I'm assuming, you must have to go by feel, in doing so... is that how it's done...
got any tips, for the best way for how do this, correctly, for someone who hasn't done it, before......
....................................................................................................I didn't notice if anybody mentioned it or not, but when I replaced mine on my 87 a few months ago using the TFI wrench I could only get the wrench in one of the holes. Apparently if it has the original module installed, Ford put little grey caps in the holes that the bolts go in. I had to use a very small screwdriver and pry the one remaining cap out before I could get that bolt out. If I had known it was there the job would have been so much easier. It's a shame we don't eyes on the ends of our fingers. Hope this helps.
do these caps get damaged when prying them out... or, do you think they could re re used, again...I didn't put mine back in, not quite sure what purpose they served anyway, maybe to keep water out. If you were concerned about it you could stick some wheel bearing grease in the holes after you get it installed, but it would probably just melt and run out.
....................................................................................................They were plastic, and yes I could have put them back at great difficulty,(no way to tap them back in, they were probably installed on the bench out of the truck), but could not see any reason. If you look at the holes in the module you will see that the holes are sealed anyway, so no way for water to get at anything that could cause a problem anyway.