Replacing distributor
 

I am attempting to replace the distributor on my 1986 911. I purchased a rebuilt distributor and checked and verified that the part number for the new rebuilt distributor matches my current one. I marked the current distributor before removing and matched the markings with the rebuilt one. My problem is that the new rebuilt distributor will not install completely. I can get the distributor to start on the bolt (can feel that the clogs are meshing and top of bolt head is even with top of casing hole) however it will not move lower than the O ring on the shaft. Checked and the opening for the bolt is the same size on both distributors so I assume the bolt is not binding. I can insert the old distributor all the way down however the new one will not fully insert down the shaft. The O ring extends slightly pass the shaft diameter when compared to the old one but just slightly. Re-installed the old distributor and car fired up however wish to install new one. Any ideas what I am doing wrong?

did you try it without the o-ring on ? If it fits maby try a thinner o ring or just lube it up real good. my .02

I did not try it without the O ring. Will try this tomorrow morning. Thought of lubing it up as well. I was hesitant to get the hammer out even though the thought did cross my mind. Thanks for the response.

yea dont hammer it you dont wanna damage the teeth. try vaseline for lube. like the fuel injectors. it probrobly just takes a bit of force

Thanks again for the response. Never thought of vaseline, will try it tomorrow morning. Have a great New Years eve!

you too man good luck :)

If you are doing this in the cold it will not go in with the o-ring on it. I tried to tap mine in and broke the side off where you bolt it to the engine. Did not use much force! Had it welded and put it in with no o-ring until summer. Never leaked oil without the o-ring. Use Dow Corning 111 silicone o-ring lube.

You guys were right. The problem was the O ring. Took the O ring off and it installed right away. Decided to take the O ring of my old distributor and use it. Everything works great. Thanks again for your advice. I always assume its something more serious than it actually is.

Cool! good to hear