Date:         Tue, 3 Jul 2001 20:44:29 -0500
Reply-To:     Larry Alofs <lalofs@ENTERACT.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Larry Alofs <lalofs@ENTERACT.COM>
Subject:      Re: Distributor cap for 2.1 L--sloppy fit
Comments: To: Steve Gough <vw@EMRIVER.COM>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Steve Gough wrote:

> Here I am again asking a question: After an engine install, I'm
> working on timing and note thatthe distributor cap seems to have a lot
> of slop in its fitto the body--both side-to-side and rotationally. A
> light twist to it could easily move the timing 5 degrees,evenwith the
> bails snapped on. Normal?  Could somebody check their 2.1L cap part
> number(it's right on top) and see if maybe the new one I have
> iswrong? Thanks in advance once again, Steve'86 Westy

Moving the cap relative to the distributor doesn't affect the timing.
It is controlled by the position of the distributor body relative to the
rotating shaft.  The end of the rotor is wide enough that the spark can
jump to the terminals even if the angle is not exactly centered.

Larry A.