Oil Dripping from Distributor?

Blue124 · Post by **Blue124** » Sun Dec 24, 2006 12:07 pm

I was driving on the Interstate this morning, running around 75 and began to smell smoke. I pulled off at an exit and opened the hood and there was oil dripping from the distributor onto the exhaust manifold. Anyone have this problem before and, if so, what is recommened fix? The car is a 1978 124 Spider.

mdrburchette · Post by **mdrburchette** » Sun Dec 24, 2006 2:11 pm

If the leak is coming from the base, I just replaced the shaft seal and mounting gasket on mine for this and it was easy. The only problem I had was figuring out a way to get a wrench on the bolt holding the distributor in place. I ended up taking a 17mm wrench and bending it with a torch. Make sure you mark the dist and cam box to ensure alignment when reinstalling the distributor.

So Cal Mark · Post by **So Cal Mark** » Sun Dec 24, 2006 4:13 pm

if the oil is dripping from the body of the dist, you'll have to disassemble it to replace the inner seal. Removing the drive gear can be tough if it still has the original pin retaining the gear.

fiater · Post by **fiater** » Sun Dec 24, 2006 10:29 pm

a 17mm crow's foot wrench works well for the dist. hold down nut.

Blue124 · Post by **Blue124** » Mon Dec 25, 2006 8:40 am

Thanks folks! I was afraid it might be that but wanted to check first. I really appreciate the help and the quick replies. I'm glad I have some time off during the holidays!