Frozen distributor

Surfmonkey · Post by **Surfmonkey** » Fri May 20, 2011 2:15 pm

I have a 66 Beetle, converted to 12v. I installed a petronix electronic ignition and need to advance the timing a touch as I now have a vehicle that starts readily, but lacks any substantial power. Trouble is I cannot move the distributor at all. I have slackened the clamp nut and liberally sprayed with WD40, all to no avail, it is frozen solid. I am not keen to take a hammer to it(!), has anyone any suggestions as to how I might free the beast?

fatalifeaten · Post by **fatalifeaten** » Fri May 20, 2011 10:18 pm

How about an oil filter wrench? The kind with a leather strap or a metal squeeze band? if you get some more leverage on it and are gentle it may come loose.

Try some PB blaster instead of the WD40 too. Soak it overnight in that stuff and you can move mountains

Surfmonkey · Post by **Surfmonkey** » Sat May 21, 2011 4:50 am

Thanks for that - did think of a strap wrench, but there isn't a lot of clearance.
PB Blaster? Not something I have come across either in the UK or Norway - I will ask around. I think patient waggling for several months (!) may eventually reap rewards........

fatalifeaten · Post by **fatalifeaten** » Sat May 21, 2011 1:43 pm

Yeah, PB blaster may be a US only thing. The standard method would be a torch, but not the greatest idea all things considered in the engine bay.

Blue Baron · Post by **Blue Baron** » Mon May 23, 2011 3:33 pm

Did you try it with the engine hot?