Is the black rubber o-ring on the dist. shaft all that keeps the oil from leaking out the distributor? Mine is leaking like crazy and I have the o -ring in place, could it have failed from the distributor being removed a few times recently? thanks

 

Guys, correct me if I'm wrong, but yeah as far as I know that o-ring is all that keeps the oil from pouring out. I don't think just moving it (to set timing) would be too much of a problem, unless when you put it on, something didn't seat correctly. I didn't have any problem after moving mine a little. Did it start leaking after you moved it for timing?

 

Yes that is all that holds the oil back. I got tired of it not sealing good and added a distributor base gasket for a V8 as well as a new o-ring.

 

thats a good idea about the v8 gasket, i think i will do that. and i didnt move it to change timing, i removed it to replace the pickup coil and ignition module, and it started leaking then. the car had also sat for about 6 months before i removed the dist., too

 

tell me about this v8 gasket...why is it better, cuz that might be a good thing to do b4 i put my engine in my car

 

This is such a simple mission. I was the one that told many about doing this.
Cause I've done it twice & total success both times.
BUT NOW, I'll suggest this, also.
Add to your new "O" ring on the distb. shaft, the SMALL BLOCK CHEVY DISTRIBUTOR GASKET and use a film of black RTV.
While ya have the distributor out, rebuild it. That's a simple mission also.
Benefits a plenty.
Trouble is, find just a simple Small Block Chevy distributor gasket!
I now suggest ya use both items together.
Works so well.
Gasket costs about $1 & the "O" ring about $.50.
CLEAN CLEAN CLEAN ALL SURFACES very well!
IF ya can, let the surfaces dry overnight for true leak free operations.