Distributor gear play on 318

[dkamp]

On a 318 where the distributor sits, the gear slot has play in it. I put a large flat tip screw driver in that slot and could wiggle it a bit. how much play should that have?
None, or do I have a potential issue?
I only ask because when I have a Timing light on it,. the mark jumps around a little.
Can an experienced person educate me?
DavidK

 

[Ele115]

Some timing chain slop can be detected before you look for that

 

[Aspen500]

You mean the gear moves side to side? If so, the bronze bushing in the block is probably worn a bit. It can be replaced if the oil pump drive is pulled out. You do need a bushing puller and slide hammer to remove it however. The bushing won't have much, if any, effect on the timing.

As Ele 115 said, most likely the jumping timing mark is from a timing chain getting loose. If the mark only moves a couple degrees you'll be OK. If it's more like 5 or 10, then I'd check the chain. If it's original, the cam gear is most likely nylon and they have a way of failing suddenly.

 

[AJ/FormS]

None, or do I have a potential issue?

forget about it, lol

 

[dkamp]

it only moves 1-2 degrees, so maybe Im just too worried.
It is not a daily driver so I guess it is OK for now.
Thank you guys for the help!