MSD distributor cam gear roll pin question

[mopar440cu]

I have a 1979 CJ5 with a AMC 304 . I am working on replacing my distributor cam gear on my 1 year Napa with a MSD cam gear but, the hole where the roll pin goes does not align with the new MSD gear. The only way it will align is I have to take out the shim, which I do not know if I can do this. I took a micrometer to both MSD and the stock Napa one that came off and the MSD is a slight different. Forgive me I forgot the measurement but, will go back and get it again if need be. My question is can I take off the shim without hurting anything? I have been searching for the answer but, I can not find it.

I would appreciate the help!

 

[Jimbos76cj]

I just installed my Mallory distributor and it required .010 feeler gauge between the gear and base. have you tried to push down the shaft from the top? they usually have a bit of play

 

[mriplaybass]

Why are you replacing the gear? Is there a problem with it? AMC 304 's are notorious for chewing up gears when you only replace the distributor gear. I used the old gear when I installed an HEI distributor, and have had no problems.
I am not sure this is an acceptable procedure, but I would think that you could carefully file the top of the gear with a flat file to get the necessary clearance. Of course only try this if you are absolutely certain that the hole is misaligned. Make sure that the shaft is pushed all the way down as Jimbo stated.

 

[Torxhead]

Why are you replacing the gear? Is there a problem with it? AMC 304 's are notorious for chewing up gears when you only replace the distributor gear. I used the old gear when I installed an HEI distributor, and have had no problems.
I am not sure this is an acceptable procedure, but I would think that you could carefully file the top of the gear with a flat file to get the necessary clearance. Of course only try this if you are absolutely certain that the hole is misaligned. Make sure that the shaft is pushed all the way down as Jimbo stated.

Ditto!

 

[mopar440cu]

The reason I'm changing the gear is I'm putting in a new camshaft, lifters,springs timing chain water pump and thought now is a good time to do it.

 

[mopar440cu]

I forgot, I'm changing both cam gear and distributor gear.

Sent from my SM-S920L using Tapatalk

 

[Lumpy Grits]

I know what I would do but that may NOT be 'rite'.
I would strongly urge you to call MSD.
https://www.msdperformance.com/products/distributors/amc/parts/8519
Please let us know what you learn.
LG

 

[tarry99]

I forgot, I'm changing both cam gear and distributor gear.

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Different thickness shims are available........check whatever the spec is for your product and shim it.

 

[mopar440cu]

Different thickness shims are available........check whatever the spec is for your product and shim it.

Well if I take the only shim out the hole lines up. I am waiting for MSD to open and I will give them a shout and see what they say.

 

[mopar440cu]

Well I finally did get someone from MSD to answer the question. All they told me to do is turn the new MSD distributor gear so the roll pin hole is facing opposite from the original shaft hole and drill a new hole. I was like HUH? I was really amazed they actually suggested that. I tried explaining to several of them that their MSD part was 1.6305 and the stock AMC gear was only 1.625. I understand there is a shim kit but, like I stated to them also the only way theirs would fit is to completely take off the only shim. Which I know now that I can not do this. I figured well maybe they will just swap it out with me and that will be that. No such luck! As I explained to the engineer and sent him pics that it is not possible because of the way the shaft is made but, I got no response back. I am attaching pics for you guys so, you understand my predicament.
I just got tired of trying to figure out how to adapt their gear to the Motorcraft distributor I finally threw in the towel. I have another New Cardone distributor and decided to try it. Well it fit and holes lined up but, what a pita it was drilling the MSD hole needed on the opposite side. Thank God I have a drill press and could clamp it down to drill.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

Any updates?
LG

 

[mopar440cu]

Any updates?
LG

What kind of updates? My previous post stated what I was doing. If I missed something please let me know.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

SORRY-
I somehow did NOT see the final fix.
How's it work'n out?
LG

 

[mopar440cu]

Got that set aside for the moment. Just replaced all the valve springs with new ones that came in my Comp Cam kit. Next thing got to install is the new cam, lifters, timing chain, WP etc.etc. I even managed to saved up to even put an new aftermarket AC/heat combo from a company in Ocala. I got to have it here in this hot humid state of Florida. Lol

 

[Lumpy Grits]

Please post your progress.
LG

 

[mopar440cu]

Here is a pic of just one of the old springs to the new.

 

[Lumpy Grits]

No CJ ever had springs like that.


LG

 

[mopar440cu]

No CJ ever had springs like that.


LG

I'm use to one's like the stock slightly used ones on the left, Not the new found fancy ones on the right. Lol

 

[elwood blues]

No CJ ever had springs like that.


LG

Not stock... but where's the fun in that??? When I upgraded the cam in my AMC 258 i6 / 4.2l COMP recommended the double springs. What a P.I.T.A. they were to install with my little handcrank spring compressor.

 

[mopar440cu]

Not stock... but where's the fun in that??? When I upgraded the cam in my AMC 258 i6 / 4.2l COMP recommended the double springs. What a P.I.T.A. they were to install with my little handcrank spring compressor.

I think it is actually a stock replacement springs. They came in the Comp kit , if I remember it's early and I'm not a morning person lol, 252? I will check when my eyes wake up. Lol