Complete replacement of the ignition coil on a 1966 Chevrolet Corvette 327ci V8, including removal of distributor cap and ignition wiring for access.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition coil × 1 — Use OEM specification or Delco D575 equivalent
• Coil mounting bracket (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Ensure engine is cool to the touch
3. Disconnect negative battery cable and secure away from battery post
4. Identify the ignition coil mounted on the left (driver's) side cylinder head or firewall, depending on configuration
5. Label or photograph distributor cap wire positions for correct reassembly

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove distributor cap
   Remove the two spring clips or screws securing the distributor cap. Lift the cap straight up with all spark plug wires still attached and move it aside without disconnecting the wires. Ensure the cap remains clear of the work area.
2. 2

   Disconnect coil wire from distributor cap
   Pull the coil-to-distributor high-tension wire from the center tower of the distributor cap. Note the routing of this wire for reinstallation.
3. 3

   Disconnect coil high-tension wire
   Pull the high-tension wire from the center tower of the ignition coil. Inspect the wire terminal for corrosion or damage.
4. 4

   Disconnect primary wiring terminals
   Using a 7/16" wrench, loosen and remove the nuts securing the two primary wiring terminals on the coil. The terminal marked BAT or + connects to the ignition switch through the resistor wire (pink or pink/black). The terminal marked DIST or - connects to the points in the distributor. Remove both wires and note their positions.
5. 5

   Remove coil mounting hardware
   Remove the two 5/16" bolts securing the coil mounting bracket to the engine block or firewall bracket. The coil is typically mounted with a metal strap or U-bracket.
6. 6

   Remove ignition coil
   Lift the ignition coil and mounting bracket assembly from the vehicle. Inspect the mounting bracket for cracks or damage.
7. 7

   Transfer mounting bracket to new coil
   If the original mounting bracket is in good condition, remove it from the old coil and install it on the new coil in the same orientation. Ensure the bracket is seated properly around the coil body.
8. 8

   Clean mounting surface
   Use a wire brush to clean the coil mounting surface on the intake manifold or firewall bracket, removing any rust or corrosion. Ensure a clean metal-to-metal ground path. Verified detail (Title references cleaning a mounting surface as if for a gasketed component; the coil mounts via a strap/bracket, not a gasketed surface.): Clean coil mounting bracket surface
9. 9

   Install new ignition coil
   Position the new coil with mounting bracket onto the mounting surface. Align the mounting holes and start both 5/16" mounting bolts by hand. Ensure the coil terminals are accessible and properly oriented (BAT/+ terminal toward the front or top).
10. 10

    Tighten coil mounting hardware
    Tighten the two 5/16" mounting bolts evenly and securely. Do not overtighten as this can crack the coil housing. Bolts should be snug with moderate hand pressure on the wrench.
11. 11

    Reconnect primary wiring terminals
    Connect the primary wiring to the correct terminals. The resistor wire (pink or pink/black) from the ignition switch connects to the BAT or + terminal. The distributor wire connects to the DIST or - terminal. Install the terminal nuts and tighten with a 7/16" wrench until snug.
12. 12

    Reconnect coil high-tension wire
    Push the coil-to-distributor high-tension wire firmly into the center tower of the new coil until it seats completely. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of the terminal boot if desired.
13. 13

    Reconnect distributor coil wire
    Push the high-tension wire firmly into the center tower of the distributor cap until it seats completely.
14. 14

    Reinstall distributor cap
    Position the distributor cap back onto the distributor body, ensuring it is fully seated. Secure with the two spring clips or screws. Verify all spark plug wires are firmly seated in their towers.

Reassembly

1. Verify all electrical connections are tight and properly routed
2. Ensure the high-tension wire is fully seated in both the coil and distributor cap
3. Check that the coil mounting hardware is secure but not overtightened
4. Reconnect the negative battery cable

Verification

• Turn ignition key to ON position (do not start) and verify no warning lights indicate electrical issues
• Start the engine and listen for smooth idle with no misfiring
• Visually inspect for any arcing or sparking around the coil terminals or high-tension connections
• Rev engine to 2000-2500 RPM briefly and confirm smooth operation with no hesitation or misfiring
• Shut off engine and inspect all connections one final time for tightness and proper routing

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