I've read quite a bit about broken/worn gear lobes on the distributer shaft and would like to visually inspect the condition of the drive gear. The question I have is that can I simply mark the orientation of the distributed/cam sensor assembly and pull it straight out by removing the two hold-down bolts, or do I need to worry about the timing mark, piston position, etc, beforehand. I hear a relatively loud squeal sound coming from that area during cold start ups especially when the temperature drops to around freezing mark and would like to rule out a damaged gear lobe on the distributed drive shaft. Thanks in advance for your input.

 

Anybody?

 

I'm pretty green here on the dizzy in the 2000. But yes, the orientation of everything is very important in a 99, (I gather). In your searching you should find one that mentions using a small shaft, like a 3/16, that you put through some holes to keep/make it align. Then there's that 2000 doesn't have a dizzy. I guess that's not your problem though....

 

just to be safe, Mark your timing marks, and label as much as possible!

 

Maybe he is talking about the CPS?

 

You need to refer to your 2000 FSM bud. It has procedures for R&R of the OPD and the CMP.

 

Thank you all for your input. I read the procedure described in the FSM as well as the toothpick indexing process but was wondering/hoping if there was a short cut method. Theoretically I should be able to pull the assembly right out and slide it back in while maintaining the same orientation with the engine off.

 

Yes you can but gotta go back exactly as removed.

 

Come on. The only special tool you need is a toothpick and you're looking for a shortcut?

LOL.

 

You should plan on replacing the distributer soon. My started making noise when cold then all the time. When i finally replaced the distributer it was very stiff to spin.

 

Got plenty of toothpicks... its the hassle with the coil pack to get the TDC, the timing mark, etc. The noise itself doesn't bother me as much. But I have this nightmare that my distributer froze and took out whatever gear inside the block, I guess the oil pump (?) and destroyed my motor. Is that possible?

 

Face your fears!!

The "dizzy" is driven off the cam.