Installation (3.9L & 5.9L)
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Dodge Dakota. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- If engine has not been rotated after removing distributor, go to next step. If engine was rotated after removing distributor, rotate crankshaft clockwise (viewed from front of engine) until cylinder No. 1 is at Top Dead Center (TDC) on compression stroke and timing mark on vibration damper aligns with TDC timing mark on timing chain cover. Go to next step.
- Ensure distributor mounting area on cylinder block is clean. Install NEW "O" ring on distributor if necessary. Apply light coat of engine oil on "O" ring.
- Position distributor rotor so it aligns with terminal for cylinder No. 1 on distributor cap. Install distributor. Ensure distributor engages with slot in oil pump drive gear. Install hold-down clamp and distributor hold-down bolt. DO NOT tighten distributor hold-down bolt at this time.
- Rotate distributor until distributor rotor aligns with cylinder No. 1 alignment mark on CMP sensor. See Fig 1. Tighten distributor hold-down bolt to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . To install remaining components, reverse removal procedure.
- Connect scan tool to DLC. Using scan tool in MISCELLANEOUS FUNCTIONS, choose SET SYNC. The SET SYNC will indicate position of distributor for fuel synchronization, not ignition timing, as ignition timing is controlled by PCM. Follow instructions on scan tool and start engine. Warm engine to normal operating temperature and note display on scan tool with engine idling. If IN RANGE with zero degrees is displayed, CMP sensor is properly set. If a plus or minus number is displayed next to the degree number, distributor must be repositioned. Loosen distributor clamp retaining bolt. Rotate distributor until IN RANGE is displayed on scan tool. Continue rotating distributor until achieving as close to zero degrees as possible. Tighten distributor clamp bolt to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .