Under the distributor cap is this (pictured below)......what is the technical name for it? is there a replacement or will I need a whole dist.? I know it is some type of coil because of the windings underneath. It is broken and car will not start.

 

Ignition Control Module (ICM). Any auto parts store should have.

 

ICM is the black module to right. I am referring to the middle round metal piece, directly below where the rotor rests.

 

Best to replace the distributor if that part is your problem. but the pick-up coil underneath it (green & white wires) is replaceable, and will keep the module from firing the spark coil.

 

Fixed......bought a whole dist from a friend for $20. While I was in there I advanced timing hehe.

 

I hope you don't literally mean in the distributor because baseline timing is done by turning the distributor following the proper procedure.

 

It was done the correct way. lol