trouble with distributor on my 1954 ford 640

[OLD BO)B]

When I try to start i t distributor spins and knock the cap off . I am trying to time it so I do not have it tightened all the way.

 

[Jerry/MT]

When I try to start i t distributor spins and knock the cap off . I am trying to time it so I do not have it tightened all the way.

You need to tighten the hold down so you can still turn the distributor but not too loose that it can move vertically. Is your rotor on all the way? I think the 600 Series Fords had a special retainer clip for the rotor IIRC.

 

[John0829]

As stated, tighten it enough that you can turn it but it cannot turn on its on, plus be sure the little metal clip is under the rotor. They are easy to lose.