Ignition distributor (Peugeot J5)

The ignition distributor is designed to supply ignition voltage to the correct spark plug in the correct sequence, i.e. 1-3-2-4, at the correct time (ignition timing). The distributor is driven from the camshaft helical gear via the same shaft as the oil pump and is located on the front of the engine, approximately in the middle.

6.2.1. Maintenance

Ignition distributor

The distributor cap should be cleaned regularly inside and out to remove carbon deposits, dust and moisture. The distributor runner should also be cleaned. For cleaning, use a clean cloth soaked in gasoline; while simultaneously checking for cracks on the distributor cap.

If the contacts are heavily worn, the distributor rotor should be replaced. Never file or sandpaper brass contacts.

With the distributor cap removed, apply two or three drops of oil to the inside of the distributor shaft to lubricate the distributor bearings.

(Original can be viewed at: PeugeotBook.ru)

Keep the outer surfaces of all high voltage wires clean and dry to ensure proper conductivity in the ignition system. From time to time, pull the wires out of the distributor sockets, clean and check the contacts. It is not permitted to shorten the wires to correct the wire ends. In this case, the wires must be replaced.

6.2.2. Removing and installing the ignition distributor

After removal, the ignition distributor must be installed in the same position to maintain ignition timing adjustment. For the same reason, you should mark the position of the parts and, without turning the engine, insert the ignition distributor so that the rod engages in the same position.



As already mentioned, the ignition distributor is driven by the camshaft, that is, when installing the distributor, the camshaft helical gear must be in a certain position. The spline of the driver engages with the tab on the distributor shaft. Actually, removing the ignition distributor is only required when replacing it or when performing other work on the engine, which includes removing and installing the oil pump.

• Disconnect the battery.
• Disconnect the spark plug wires from the distributor cap by pressing the spring clips.
• Disconnect the wires from the side of the distributor and the hose from the vacuum diaphragm.
• Turn the engine until the piston of the first cylinder is in the position of the top dead center of the compression stroke and mark the position of the end of the runner with a gauge on the edge of the distributor housing. To turn the engine, lift the front wheel, engage a high gear and turn the wheel until the engine reaches top dead center. Alternatively, you can turn the crankshaft with a 35 mm socket wrench. Naturally, turning the engine is easier with the spark plugs removed.
• Release the clamping fastening and pull the ignition distributor out of the cylinder block.

If the engine has not been turned over or repairs have not been made to the ignition distributor, install the ignition distributor in its previous position. If the distributor was disassembled or its installation is carried out after engine repair, the distributor is installed as follows:

• Set the piston of the first cylinder to the top dead center position of the compression stroke, that is, both cylinder valves should be closed (when the cylinder head is removed) or crank the engine until it reaches the ignition timing position (see section 6.3).
• Turn the distributor rotor so that it points to the mark made on the edge of the distributor housing during removal.
• Look into the hole under the ignition distributor and check that the spline of the driver is in the position (2) shown in Figure 90. If it is not clearly visible, unscrew the clamp on the cylinder block. Then the drive gear is visible as shown in the mentioned figure.
• In this position, insert the ignition distributor and tighten. Connect all wires and connect the vacuum hose to the distributor.
• Finally, check the ignition timing (section 6.3).