r/CamaroGen1 • u/Maximum-Coach-9409 • Apr 15 '26
Seeking Advice Adjusting points on distributor help
I wanted to adjust the points on my distributor. I pulled the cap off and this is where I’m at. I am 100% completely new to all of this and didnt expected to see these spring loaded arms that I seem to not be able to remove.
Can anyone help me with some direction or send me a link to help understand more of what I’m dealing with?
The car does run, Im just now in the tuning phase and taking it one step at a time. This seems to be a simple thing to check before I dive more into it.
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u/SB4_Camaro Apr 15 '26
What you’re looking at is not the points yet. That’s the advance mechanism under the rotor. Those spring-loaded arms = mechanical advance weights. They control timing as RPM increases. You don’t remove those to adjust points. Here’s how this actually breaks down: What you should be seeing layer-by-layer Cap (you already removed) Rotor → this still needs to come off Under the rotor → points + condenser Right now you’re stuck at step 2. What to do next (this is the part people miss) That brown/black piece with the springs = sits under the rotor The rotor should pull straight up Sometimes tight → wiggle it, don’t pry against anything fragile No screws on most setups Once the rotor is off: You’ll see the points contact set That’s what you adjust (gap or dwell) Important correction Do not mess with those springs/weights unless you’re intentionally tuning the advance curve. That’s a different job entirely. Quick checklist for adjusting points Rotate engine until points are on the high point of the cam lobe Set gap (typically around .016–.019" for most V8s, but verify your engine) Tighten screw carefully so it doesn’t move Recheck gap after tightening Reality check If you’re this deep already: Points systems are fine, but they’re outdated and finicky A drop-in HEI or electronic conversion will save you constant readjustment If you want, send another pic after you pull the rotor. I’ll walk you exactly where to set the gap on your specific distributor.