I just finished installing the rotating assembly on my 383 and have moved on to the oil pump but have another question. I am installing the Melling M-55, 55-S screen and the IS-55E intermediate shaft with metal collar. The book I'm following says to ensure the shaft remains attached to the drive on the pump. Well mine doesnt, it slides on and off very easily. The metal collar on the intermediate shaft fits loosely over the oil pump drive and will not stay attached unless sitting upright (gravity doing it's job). My old pump is gone so I cant tell if I am missing something. It almost appears as if the new M-55 pump should have a locking collar of some sort that the metal collar slides over but I cant find a thing discussing it other than it should fit tight. Anyone know?

 

it'll stay in place when you install the distributor

 

OHH, so this is normal. While my engine is on the stand, the intermediate shaft will simply be held in location by the guide hole in the block and the oil pump drive itself until the distributor is installed? Is it a bear to realign? I can live with that if that's the correct way, just seemed like there was something missing.
Thanks.

 

Yes it will stay in place.

No re-alignment is required.