Reluctor gap distance? HELP!

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User0511

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I've got a few different distributors for a small block. Some out of running cars and some unknown origin. What is the gap for the reluctor supposed to be? I have one that is .010 and I have one almost .0035

Now, these are all small block mopar. However, the made in USA is only on one. One looks like an MSD , but I think it is a Chinese knock off.

One is a Firecore off a 340 that was a healthy runner.

Any help?
 
Reluctor gap should be .006" using a non-magnetic feeler gauge (brass). Set it for light drag and then be sure a .008 gauge will NOT slide in using VERY light force.
If you're not aware of it, trying to set the air gap with a steel feeler gauge is about impossible to be accurate.
 
You almost have to take the top plate off or loosen it, so you can look at the weights – which will tell you if you got one of the cheap Chinese knockoffs, or not.

Sometimes you can see the weight thickness by removing the vacuum advance, only – but not often can I do that (slot is too narrow to look into, most of the time).

I have a pretty good eye and can tell, by looks, if a distributor is from Chrysler, or not.


I will say Chinese distributors are not worth a darn – except to get a car moved off of the used car lot. The thin weights they use, makes the timing jump around like Mexican jumping beans during a bad earthquake.

The bad news is most of the later Mopar Performance distributors are Chinese knockoffs (made in last 20-25 years).
 
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