[PBLA]

I recently bought a mustang w/ 289. I do not have much experience with older cars, but I finally figured out why it ran like crap unless the vacuum advance was unplugged, it's because it's advanced ALOT. I bought a timing light and loosened distributor and was about to put it back to factory setting, but I can not turn the distributor. I've soaked it with Deep Creep, tapped with long screwdriver and hammers, gently pried, but no luck. Any ideas?

[Print Dad]

Hello PBLA,
This is a fairly common problem. The key is patience and a good penetrating fluid.
I like PB Blaster. Spray the base where it meets the block and let it sit.
It may take several days of repeated sprays to loosen it. Please read all of post.

I have read of people having luck with several methods but you must use caution so as not to damage the distributor or shaft.

I would scratch a line in base and block to use as a reference because when it frees it will turn quite a bit

Some people have suggested:
1. - Try a strap wrench on the distrib, not the cap. Put the strap on the metal . Gently try to rotate a little. If it moves, spray and wait a bit then rotate back and forth

2. - Others suggest a gentle tap upwards with the rubber mallet and piece of wood. Be careful you could damage the shaft.

3. - Others say they put a monkey wrench on the base and apply pressure.

I don't really like to try and force the distributor. Just try the penetrating oil and give it ample time to do it's thing. This is the safest way.

I am just a backyard mechanic but offer these suggestions.
You don;t want to damage anything so try to be patient and let the liquids do their thing. Once the distributor moves even a fraction, with repeated sprays it will loosen. Print Dad

[PBLA]

Thanks, I've tried PB Blaster before and was impressed, I grabbed Deep Creep this last time and hoped it was equivalent. Looks like I'll have to grab some PB today.