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Tach isn't working. I put in drill and it worked. So based on other threads unless the cable is rounded off then it is the drive gear in the distributor. Here is what the cable looks like. Doesn't look rounded to me but wanted to see what you all think before I go the distributor route. Also, should it have the grooves in it like in the second picture?
Bonus question:
While was checking the tach cable I noticed a wire/hose bolted to the back of the engine just under the distributor. The it is broken and not connected to anything. Didn't see it in the AIM. What is it for?
Hi Q,
Bonus first… in the lower center of your 3rd photo is the oil pressure line (it's tiny black plastic tube) that runs through a grommet in the firewall to oil pressure gauge in you center gauge cluster. (Does the gauge work?)
First part… the tach cable itself looks in good enough condition to make a satisfactory connection with the cross-shaft in the distributor's base.
If you look carefully at the tach's connecting point in the base you'll see a shallow slot cut into the end of the shaft that allows you to use a screwdriver to back the shaft out of the distributor.
Once it's out you'll be able to get a good look at the cable connection and also at the condition of the gear at the inner end of the shaft.
Good Luck!
Regards,
Alan
The oil pressure gauge was working. I have have a few thing disassembled right now so I can't see if it is still working right now. I am guessing if that is the oil pressure gauge I probably broke it when looking at the tach. The tube was very very brittle.
I will take a close look at the shaft. Thanks for the help
The oil pressure gauge was working. I have have a few thing disassembled right now so I can't see if it is still working right now. I am guessing if that is the oil pressure gauge I probably broke it when looking at the tach. The tube was very very brittle.
I will take a close look at the shaft. Thanks for the help
Make sure you remember to fix/replace the tube before you start the engine again. Otherwise you will have oil dripping off the ceiling.
Your issue looks like it's distributor related... Pull the cross gear out of the distributor and see what it looks like. The end of the cable looks fine.
When you pull it out, inspect the coupling for wear as well as the distributor housing.
I've posted you some pics below for things to check.
Check the coupling for wear, when you get wear in the coupling the gear will **** and chew up.
Look for wear here: When your housing is worn it will cause the gear teeth to over-ride. Now on your distributor you'll have a hole in the side and there should be a teflon bushing in there and a hole where the dimple is shown. If this busing is gone or worn out the cross gear will eat up too. If the cross gear is bad, the you'll need to replace both.. replacing just the cross gear is only a band-aide.
Tach not working question
