Distributor operating w/o inspection cover

[TibetanT]

I apologize if this has been covered before, but wasn't able to find answers using search function.

Can a distributor operate properly without the inspection cover as pictured here, or does operating like this cause issues for advance vacuum?

Thanks.

[T77911S]

no, the pot on the side is for that.

dirt can now get inside.
it already looks nasty finside from what i can see. you might consider cleaning it.
the mechanical advance get get stuck.

[TibetanT]

Thanks for your reply!

I had hoped that wasn't the case. Looks like a project to fix too.

Guess I am going to have to find an inspection cover somewhere, or a machinist to make one for me.

[lonewolf]

Not vacuum advance but the mechanical advance could be affected with all the dirt and grime getting in there. The weights and springs will get all gunked up.

[TibetanT]

Thanks! I am going to have to find a solution and it is beginning to look like a machinist is the best option.

[E Sully]

From what I see in your picture, You may want to consider having your distributor gone through. It looks like there is a bit of corrosion going on. If you want to do try it yourself-
Distributor service (Clean and lube) real easy without removing the pinion gear!
distributor lube...
Distributor Maintenance
Or if you would like to send it out, this thread has a few recommendations. If you do send it for service, I am sure they would replace the cover also.
rebuilding distributors

[TibetanT]

Originally Posted by E Sully

From what I see in your picture, You may want to consider having your distributor gone through. It looks like there is a bit of corrosion going on. If you want to do try it yourself-
Distributor service (Clean and lube) real easy without removing the pinion gear!
distributor lube...
Distributor Maintenance
Or if you would like to send it out, this thread has a few recommendations. If you do send it for service, I am sure they would replace the cover also.
rebuilding distributors

Ed:

Thanks so much for all these links, especially those with the detailed pictures taken!

More than enough for me to get the job done. Excellent stuff.

[john walker's workshop]

a spot of gaffer's tape will work for a while.

[TibetanT]

Originally Posted by john walker's workshop

a spot of gaffer's tape will work for a while.

Good idea, John!

thanks