Replace the ignition points and condenser in the distributor to restore proper ignition timing and spark delivery on a 1966 Chevrolet Corvette 327ci V8.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Ignition point set × 1 — Use OEM specification for Delco distributor
• Condenser × 1 — Use OEM specification for Delco distributor
• Distributor rotor × 1 — Replace if worn or corroded
• Distributor cap × 1 — Replace if cracked or corroded

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake.
2. Turn ignition key to OFF position and remove key.
3. Disconnect negative battery cable to prevent accidental electrical discharge.
4. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated.
5. Gather all tools and parts before beginning work.
6. Mark the distributor cap spark plug wire positions with tape and numbered labels corresponding to cylinder numbers for correct reinstallation.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove distributor cap and rotor
   Remove the 2 spring latch clips securing the distributor cap by pressing down with a screwdriver and rotating them to release. Lift the distributor cap with all spark plug wires still attached and position it aside without disconnecting the wires. Pull the rotor straight up off the distributor shaft, noting its orientation.
2. 2

   Inspect and clean distributor components
   Inspect the distributor cap terminals and rotor tip for carbon tracking, burns, or corrosion. Replace if damaged. Inspect the distributor cam lobes for excessive wear or scoring. Use a clean rag to wipe any dirt or oil from inside the distributor housing. Do not use solvent that could contaminate the points.
3. 3

   Disconnect and remove the condenser
   Locate the condenser mounted on the outside of the distributor body. Disconnect the condenser wire from the points terminal by loosening the small terminal screw. Remove the single mounting screw securing the condenser to the distributor housing and remove the condenser.
4. 4

   Remove the ignition points
   Disconnect the primary wire from the points terminal by loosening the terminal screw. Remove the 2 screws securing the point set to the breaker plate. Lift the old point set straight up and out of the distributor. Note the location of any ground wire or terminal insulators for correct reinstallation.
5. 5

   Clean the breaker plate and install new condenser
   Wipe the breaker plate mounting surface clean with a rag. Install the new condenser to the distributor housing using the mounting screw. Do not tighten the condenser wire to the points terminal yet.
6. 6

   Install new ignition points
   Position the new point set onto the breaker plate, aligning the mounting holes. Ensure any ground wire or insulating washers are correctly positioned. Install the 2 mounting screws and snug them finger-tight, allowing the point set to move for adjustment. Do not fully tighten yet.
7. 7

   Connect electrical wires
   Connect the primary wire from the distributor body to the points terminal. Connect the condenser wire to the same terminal. Install the terminal screw and tighten securely, ensuring both wires are held firmly under the terminal.
8. 8

   Apply distributor cam lubricant
   Apply a small amount of distributor cam lubricant to the high points of the distributor cam lobes. Use only the lubricant provided with the point set or high-temperature distributor cam grease. Excessive lubricant will contaminate the points and cause misfiring.
9. 9

   Rotate engine to position for point gap adjustment
   Using a remote starter switch or a wrench on the harmonic balancer bolt, rotate the engine crankshaft clockwise until one of the distributor cam lobes fully opens the points to their maximum gap. The rubbing block on the points arm should be on the highest point of a cam lobe.
10. 10

    Set point gap to specification
    Insert a 0.019" feeler gauge between the point contacts (use 0.019" for new points; 0.016" applies only to used points). Loosen the point set mounting screws slightly. Use a screwdriver in the adjustment slot or eccentric screw to move the fixed point until the feeler gauge has a light drag when pulled through the gap. Tighten the 2 mounting screws securely while holding the adjustment. Recheck the gap after tightening to ensure it did not shift.
11. 11

    Verify point operation and alignment
    Slowly rotate the engine through one complete revolution by hand, watching the points open and close on each cam lobe. Verify the points open and close smoothly without binding. Check that the point contacts align properly when closed, with no side-to-side misalignment. If misaligned, carefully bend the fixed contact bracket to correct alignment.
12. 12

    Reinstall rotor and distributor cap
    Install the rotor onto the distributor shaft, ensuring it is fully seated and aligned with the locating tab. Position the distributor cap back onto the distributor and secure it with the 2 spring clips or screws. Ensure the cap is fully seated before securing.
13. 13

    Reconnect battery and verify timing
    Reconnect the negative battery cable. Start the engine and allow it to reach normal operating temperature. Connect a timing light to the number 1 cylinder spark plug wire. Check and adjust ignition timing to factory specification with the vacuum advance line disconnected and plugged. Verify the exact initial timing value for your specific 327 horsepower variant against the factory shop manual, as it differs between the base 300hp, L79 350hp, and high-performance engines. Adjust timing by loosening the distributor hold-down clamp and rotating the distributor body as needed.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all distributor cap spark plug wires are returned to their correct positions using the labels applied during preparation.
2. Verify the distributor cap is fully seated and secured before starting the engine.
3. Double-check that the rotor is properly installed and seated on the distributor shaft.

Verification

• Engine should start readily and idle smoothly without misfiring or hesitation.
• Check that ignition timing remains stable at idle using a timing light.
• Rev engine to 2000-2500 RPM and verify timing advances properly with centrifugal advance mechanism.
• Road test vehicle under light load and acceleration to confirm smooth operation without stumbling or detonation.
• Listen for any unusual clicking or buzzing sounds from the distributor that might indicate loose components or electrical arcing.

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