can't reach the distributor

[derek54401]

I am trying to adjust the timing on my 2.9 ranger. the problem I am having is that the distributor is jammed right between the firewall and the intake manifold. how am I supposed to loosen and turn the distributor?

 

[WhiteBroncoII2WD]

I am trying to adjust the timing on my 2.9 ranger. the problem I am having is that the distributor is jammed right between the firewall and the intake manifold. how am I supposed to loosen and turn the distributor?

you're going need a small 13mm wrench and work your hands behind the distributor, one on each side (I've found it's best to position yourself on the passenger side of the engine bay) and loosen the hold down bolt for the distributor just enough so as you can turn lift and turn it.

 

[barbefunkoramaque]

I use a 1/2 wobble socket (a Socket and Wobble extension doesn't work right for me) connected to a 6 inch or so extension which basically puts that right on the firewall with not enough room... however, using your wobble extension there with a 2 inch extension and a ratchet if perfect and it stays there while you start the engine and run it. I can always tell by the height of that wobble extension whether or not I have the socket seated.

popdaddy

 

[derek54401]

ok, thanks for the input. when reaching behind the distributor, i felt one hold down bolt. is there only one?

 

[BlackBII]

Yeah, there is only one. It's 1/2 inch (13mm), I find using a real short Box end wrench works best, I'm right handed, so standing on the Drivers side, on a bucket(Mine has a lift and I'm not over 6ft tall) I can reach my right arm down there, jam the box end on there, so it stays, then you can loosen it, adjust your timing and tighten her back up. Using a 13mm, which is a titch bigger, it ill fall off the bolt and you'll be crawlin under your truck a number of times to retreive it. Be sure to take out the Spout when doing the timing

 

[IMenriched]

If body stature is more the issue...and you're not too concern about the lawn..dig a couple of hole for the front tires to sit in, or air down the tires significantly.

taking the hood off, with some help from a buddy, helps you get your head back there to see what is going on too. PLUS, LOTS more light

 

[holyford86]

I've always been partial to kneeling on the radiator support to get at that bolt, and most of the other things back on that part of the engine.

 

[derek54401]

thanks for all the input everyone. as long as that is the only hold down bolt, i should be able to get to it, as I am about 6 feet, and my lift is only 2"

just wasn't sure that there was only that one hold down bolt.

 

[IMenriched]

thanks for all the input everyone. as long as that is the only hold down bolt, i should be able to get to it, as I am about 6 feet, and my lift is only 2"

just wasn't sure that there was only that one hold down bolt.

Yeap...only 1

 

[ScottT80]

Mine has worked itself loose... I was wondering how to get at it too...