How to Set the Points on a 1966 Chevrolet 283

The 1966 Chevrolet 283 small-block engine was equipped with a single mechanical distributor. Within the distributor is one set of ignition points that resemble a pair of tweezers. As the distributor's shaft rotates, it opens and closes the ignition points. How far the points open is referred to as "gap" or "breaker gap." Ensuring that the gap is properly adjusted will help keep the engine running efficiently.

 

Tools Used: Phillips head screwdriver, Blade-style feeler gauge, Flat head screwdriver

Set Points

Remove the two screws which secure the distributor cap to the top of the distributor with a Phillips head screwdriver then lift the cap off of the distributor, taking care not to disturb the spark plug wires on top of the cap.

Pull the distributor rotor off of the distributor to access the ignition points.

Measure the gap between the two points with a blade-style feeler gauge. Note that the metal shaft in the center of the distributor, from which the rotor was removed, features four rounded corners. Rotate the shaft until one rounded corner crosses the side of the breaker points. The points will open when a rounded corner crosses them. The distance between the two points is the gap. If the points are in used condition, that distance must be .016 of an inch. If the points are in new condition, that distance must be .019 of an inch.

Loosen the two screws which secure the breaker points to the bottom of the distributor with a flat head screwdriver.

Adjust the gap between the breaker points to the appropriate distance as specified in Step 3. Note that a slot is cut into the body of the points. That slot is designed to accommodate a flat head screwdriver. Insert the tip of the screwdriver into the slot then rotate the screwdriver to adjust the distance between the points.

Tighten the two screws which secure the breaker points to the bottom of the distributor with the flat head screwdriver.

Lower the distributor cap onto the distributor, then reinstall and retighten the cap's two retaining screws with the Phillips head screwdriver.