The distributor equipped on the 1964 Lincoln Continental featured one set of mechanical distributor points, which look like a common pair of tweezers. The two tips of the points open and close as the spindle in the center of the distributor rotates. The distance between the two tips at their extreme open position is called the "gap." If the gap is too wide, a weak spark will result. Hard starting and poor low speed performance are symptomatic of a gap that is too narrow. Measure the gap as part of every tune-up.
Tools Used: Screwdriver, Feeler gauge
Set Points
Remove the distributor cap by prying the two clips off of the sides of the cap with a screwdriver and lifting the cap off of the distributor to expose the points and rotor.
Lift the rotor off of the spindle by pulling it straight up. Rotate the distributor's spindle until the heel of the point's breaker arm is on the highest point of the spindle.
Measure the distance between the two tips of the points assembly with a feeler gauge. The distance must be .017 inch.
Slacken the two breaker point retaining screws with a screwdriver. A single screw is located on each end of the points assembly. Insert a screwdriver into the notched hole in the breaker point plate.
Rotate the screwdriver in a clockwise direction to increase the distance and counterclockwise to decrease the distance until a measurement of .017 inch is attained.
Tighten the two breaker point retaining screws with a screwdriver. Position the rotor onto the top of the spindle and press down firmly onto the rotor.
Lower the distributor cap onto the distributor. Press each of the distributor cap's two securing clips onto the sides of the distributor.
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