420b timing

[Bret4207]

Is it possible to get the distributor 180 degrees out when you put it back in the engine? I ask because I think the idiot that looks back at me in the mirror might have done that.

[Lavoy]

Yes and no. The distributor itself, no, but if you had the oil pump out, then you could have installed it in the wrong position., which would cause the distributor to be in the wrong position.
Lavoy

[Bret4207]

I sheared the pin that drives the distributor last year and repaired it. That's when the trouble started IIRC. I also note that looking through the manual, my distributor cap isn't in the same position as the pictures show. I could have also put the cap on "upside down" I suppose. If that's all it is, I'm really going to feel stupid!!! Typical though, I always overthink things.

[Jim B]

If the cap is on the distributor is in the correct location in relation to the dust cover, the locating notch of the cap will be engaged with the dust cover. The other dust cover notch will be engaged with one of the distributor cap clip mounts, if I remember right. The cap and dust cover should not rotate if you hold it in place,without clipping it down, and try to rotate the cap.

[Bret4207]

Well,Lavoy was right. I followed the manual and eventually got the pump timed right. The distributor kerfluffle was solved once I pulled it and saw that the hot wire stud was way around on the back and not out front where it was supposed to be! Not sure If I did that or one of my boys "helped" me in that regard. Ended up being a series of small problems that piled up and me overthinking it. She's running nice now!!! Thanks for the help!!!