I have just completed a MK4 distributor conversion and would add the following points to Mike Jordan's article.
The distributor from the Overhead Valve 1.3 Fiesta engine has a different firing order to our MK1 Cortina.
The distributor's rotor arm must line up with a gap in the distributor body. The gap is near the bottom, right of the distributor when it is installed in the MK1 block. Note: On the MK1, number one cylinder is "top, right" on the distributor.
When it is lined up, the rotor arm is pointing at number one cylinder. I timed my engine using the rotor arm pointing to the gap, then I removed and replaced my plug leads as shown in the following diagram.
The engine fired first time and does appear to run smoother. I have fitted new Champion N4CC plugs (G.T. engine).
Note: Make sure you gap the plugs to the MK4 settings - i.e. 30 thou (0.8 mm)
I have covered about 500 miles so far, so I will advise when I have covered a more reasonable mileage.
Note that my distributor had BLACK, GREEN and BROWN wiring. I used:-
Here is a wiring diagram drawn by my daughter, Rae (aged 10 !)
I have also fitted a Stagg-modified cylinder head. This has hardened valve seats and new valve guides and is now suitable for running on unleaded petrol. I also had a bit of gas-flowing done to the head while it was off. I re-fitted the head and ran the car for about six miles before I attempted the distributor conversion.
The electronic distributor has a "device" in the vacuum line between the distributor and the carburettor. My engine does not seem to like this device. I have removed it for the time being, but want to time the spark with a strobe light before I try re-fitting the vacuum device.
Update:- Have now timed with Strobe-Light and everything is okay with the vacuum device fitted.
I have now covered about 2000 miles and so far, everything seems okay!
Go to "Timing with a Strobe-Light."
Page last updated:- 03 October, 2006 13:56