I know this is a V8 site but maybe someone knows something about these distributors. I recently bought a TR-7 with a odd fire Buick V6 motor in it. I have tried to get this thing started but the (HEI) distributor is dead as a hammer. I have changed the rotor, module (4 pin) like an even fire distributor, and the coil, (looks just like a even fire one). I also checked for voltage to the distributor and my test light lights up when the key is on and while trying to start. I guess my question is, is the module and coil the same as a even fire distributor uses or does the odd fire use something different? Believe me I need any imputs anyone may have. I'm going to change the motor over to a even fire one but it would be nice if I can get this pig started so I don't have to push it around by hand. Thanks in advance, I know Larry70GS may have an answer as he always seems to give an answer/opinion on electrical problems.
Only one thing left, the pick up coil in the bottom of the distributor. I believe it's actually called a pole piece, it triggers the module. To replace it means pulling the distributor, knocking the roll pin out and removing the gear, then the shaft. The pick up coil is held in by a small snap ring. What usually happens is the leads going to the module develop an intermittent open condition because they flex a small amount with the vacuum advance. Sometimes moving the leads around will restore continuity, but it will occasionally leave you stranded. Just replace it.
I changed the distributor today but it still won't start. While I had the distributor out I primmed the oil pump with a drill and primming tool. What is driving me crazy is that I have dumped enough fuel down the 600 Holley to choke an adult mule and after pulling 4 of the 6 plugs out after it would not start the plugs are dry as a bone. That got me to thinking maybe the rocker arms are not moving (opening/closing) the valves so I pulled a cover and they are. I did with this distributor though get a small pop out of first the left and later the right exhaust pipe after again pouring a load of fuel down the carburator. I'm at a lost to why the plugs are not wet. The fuel has to be going somewhere? Any suggestions what to try next?
Thanks but I've got a even fire motor to go in it. I'm just trying to get it started so I can move it around.
That is very strange. Is it making a spark? If you are getting spark and it won't start, the distributor may be in wrong. Has this engine ever run since you've had it?
I didn't check for spark today but if it wasn't it would not have popped out of the tail pipes even though it was a small pop. With the amount of fuel I put down the carburator I expected a backfire through the carburator if it was out of timming. The motor has never run since I bought the car but the guy said he drove it into the garage 2 years ago and it has been there ever since, that is why I primmed the oil pump just incase the lifters had bleed down. It turns over like a normal engine and doesn't act like its jummped time or? As I was alone today I used my whistle (compression) one man thing so I could tell when #1 compression came up and stabbed the distributor in. Could the fuel be leaking past the rings and into the oil pan? I have never seen anything like this before. I thought maybe I would try some eather tomorrow as it lights off quicker than fuel. Your thoughts?
Why don't you get some lawn mower or chain saw starter fluid and spray it into the carb, while cranking it. You may be able to get some fire that way and at least get it to run enough to get the rest of the engine to working. Or something like that (Grin). Good luck!!!!
Thats why I said I was going to try some eather (spelling?) tomorrow. I'm a one man band so what ever I do I have to do by myself. Actually it looks like a one man circus.
I would still check the spark the old fashioned way. I've seen enough HEI with weak or no spark. Position one of the plug wires near a ground and eyeball the spark. You want a nice healthy blue spark.
Although I have a new battery I planned on putting the battery charger on the battery while trying to start it tomorrow. What are your thoughts on why the plugs are not wet?
I can't explain that. If the valves are opening and closing, and you are dumping raw fuel down the carb, you should at least be able to smell it on the plugs. I still think you have a bum HEI.
