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I’m installing new O-rings on my TEC distributor, along with a new OEM cap. The rotor has some discoloration, but the car has been running fine. Can I reuse or should I go ahead and get s new one? Don’t want to mess up the new cap points with a old rotor if it matters?
[URL=http://s438.photobucket.com/user/MattN03/media/20140809_170552_zpsyaujzpwt.jpg.html][IMG]http://i438.photobucket.com/albums/qq104/MattN03/20140809_170552_zpsyaujzpwt.jpg[/IMG][/URL]
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Just make sure to take YOUR rotor with you to have exact match. Aftermarket parts stores are notorious about selling you stuff that does not match. “looks like it” normally ends up in part that does not fit and drive back to store.
I used an aftermarket rotor and cap on my Honda Accord ONE time. The bolt / screw that holds the rotor onto the distributor shaft somehow came loose (In 30 years working on cars, I have NEVER had this happen to me) and then lodged it’s self between the tip of the rotor, and one of the contacts for the plugs, bending the contact, and then punching a hole in the side of the distributor cap.
Unbelievably, it ran that way, for god only knows how long. I had noticed that power was down a little, but nothing like a screaming missfire to make me question the ignition system, since I knew the cap and rotor were relatively new. I only spotted it this spring when I was searching for fuel economy, and decided that the cap and rotor were now about two years old, and probably due. I purchased OEM Honda parts this time around, but what a surprise when I took the cap off and discovered what had happened inside the distributor. I will stick with the OEM stuff from now on, it isn’t that much more expensive than the after market stuff from the parts store.
[quote=”ukrkoz” post=107435]I always mechanicall cleaned rotor and points. Needle file works well. Flat head screwdriver.[/quote]
Honestly this practice is not recommended as it effects resistance and spark transfer. If the parts show signs of excessive corrosion, it is best to replace them.
That said, the rotor pictured shows normal wear. Since you have it off and are replacing the cap, I’d recommend you replace it at the same time.
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