distributor cap-off bad design

[florida_tgp]

for the second time have had to replace the o-ring on the distributor block off. why in the work didn't they use something better, like a freeze plug. I was this close to trying to find one of those expanding rubber freeze plugs to fit it. anyone  found a once and for all fix for this?

[eclipse5302]

They need something that can support the top of the distributor drive unit.  If you pull that all the way out, you will see there is a shaft and a gear.  A smaller shaft slides in to that assembly and drives the oil pump.

Jason

[1trucavalier]

you could always be like curtis and stick a distributer in there :twisted: !

[Chris A]

Think of it as the oil pump drive, not a distributor block off. Then it has a definite function. Yeah, its kinda obvious that the distributor USED to be there.

Are you using the high quality brown oring or the regular black kind?

Chris

[florida_tgp]

first time it was replaced in 93 was at gm dealer, i assume he used right part, if i remeber right, the one i just took off was black, i replaced it
with the one Jeff sends  with crossover pipe, added some sealer  around top for good measure.

[Chris A]

Well, in this situation, the right part and the best part are two different things. Don't forget, steel freeze plugs can rust, brass ones are better!

You are also talking about a commonly failed area (oil leak) and a 10 year old repair. I don' t think they started using the new silicone seals until a few years ago, so in '93 it should have just been a black o-ring. These are normal rubber ones (i forget exactly what variety) and will dryout and leak again. I've had good sucess with the brown ones.

Chris