chevy silverado 4.3l vortec (TDC) distributor install & where 2 point the rotor

Summary

In this instructional video, Tony demonstrates how to set the Chevy 4.3L V6 Forte engine to top dead center on the compression stroke for cylinder one and install a new distributor. He emphasizes safety by disconnecting the battery, outlines the necessary tools, and provides detailed steps to locate and remove the number one spark plug. Tony advises on using a top dead center whistle for precision and explains how to align the distributor correctly with the oil pump gear. The video is designed for beginners, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the process without rushing through the steps.

Takeaways

• 🔌 Always disconnect the black cable from the battery before working on the vehicle's electrical system to prevent damage to the vehicle's computer.
• 🔧 To set the Chevy 4.3 L V6 engine to top dead center (TDC) on the compression stroke for cylinder one, remove the number one spark plug and wire.
• 📌 Use a tool like a top dead center whistle to accurately find TDC, which is safer and more reliable than using a screwdriver or other makeshift methods.
• ⚙️ Ensure the oil pump gear is correctly positioned before installing the new distributor to avoid ignition timing issues.
• 🔄 When installing a new distributor, align the rotor to point at the number one position on the distributor cap for TDC.
• 🧭 Use the timing marks on the crank pulley and the engine timing cover to verify correct TDC alignment.
• 🛠️ To remove the old distributor, remove the 10 mm bolt and disconnect the electrical connector, then carefully pull the distributor out.
• 🔩 When installing the new distributor, ensure the distributor gear aligns with the oil pump gear for proper seating.
• 💡 A bright flashlight is essential for checking the alignment of the oil pump gear and the distributor gear in the engine.
• ⚠️ If the distributor does not seat correctly, it may prevent the vehicle from starting, but it will not destroy the engine.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The video is a tutorial on how to set a Chevy 4.3 L V6 Forte engine to top dead center on the compression stroke for the number one cylinder and how to properly install a new distributor.

Why is it important to disconnect the black cable from the battery before starting work?

Disconnecting the black cable from the battery is a safety measure to prevent accidental electrical contact that could damage the vehicle's computer or cause personal injury.

What tools are required to complete the task shown in the video?

The tools required include a 38mm ratchet, short driver, spark plug socket, 16mm/inch socket, short driver and ratchet, 1/4 inch ratchet, Torx T15 screw remover, and a 10mm socket or wrench.

How should you remove the spark plug wire from the number one spark plug hole?

You should use needle-nose pliers or a spark plug socket boot tool to safely remove the spark plug wire by gripping it at the boot, not by pulling directly on the wire.

What is the purpose of using a top dead center whistle?

The top dead center whistle is used to audibly indicate when the piston is at its highest point in the cylinder, which is top dead center on the compression stroke.

How do you know you've reached top dead center on the compression stroke for the number one cylinder?

You've reached top dead center when the top dead center whistle starts to whistle as the crank pulley's second mark aligns with the timing cover mark and stops whistling when it lines up.

What is the significance of the rotor pointing to the number one position on the distributor cap?

The rotor pointing to the number one position on the distributor cap indicates that the engine is set to top dead center for the number one cylinder, which is necessary for correct ignition timing.

Why is it crucial to ensure the oil pump gear is in the correct position before installing the new distributor?

The oil pump gear must be in the correct position to ensure the new distributor seats correctly and the engine can be properly timed. If the gear is not aligned, the distributor may not engage with the engine components correctly.

What trick does the video suggest for aligning the oil pump gear correctly before installing the new distributor?

The video suggests using the gear from the old distributor, which has two dimples, as a tool to align the oil pump gear correctly by spinning it until it matches the position of the gear in the engine.

How can you tell if the new distributor is seated correctly after installation?

The new distributor is seated correctly if the rotor pointer lands on the number six when the distributor is lowered into the engine, indicating proper alignment with the oil pump gear and correct ignition timing.