72 Blazer K5: Is is possible to remove distributor with engine in truck? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

igrout · 08-04-2024, 10:17 PM

Hello Folks,

I have a 1972 Blazer K5 4x4 with a stock 350 engine setup, I tested the vacuum advance unit on my distributor today and found it to be non functional, not holding any vacuum, the diafram inside is probably toast.

I'd like to proceed to replace the vacuum advance unit and my thought was to pull the distributor out to make sure I don't drop small screws down into the works, as I'm swapping in the new unit, but wanted to ask, if there is room on the 4x4 Blazer to lift the distributor out while the engine is in the truck? (seems pretty tight up against the firewall) Or do I have to swap the vacuum canister with the distributor in place in the engine?

Thanks!

-Ian

**58 Special** · 08-05-2024, 12:14 AM

Going back a lot of years. but changed my original distributer to a GM HEI. Was done in place. Probably have to remove cap and wires. Mine was in a suburban 4X4 350. It is a tight squeeze.

**DeadheadNM** · 08-05-2024, 12:44 AM

You should be able to remove it without difficulty whether it’s a points distributor or HEI. Label the wires, rotate the rotor toward the firewall, and mark the firewall where the rotator is aimed all before removing to make the install go easier. If it’s possible other items are worn on the distributor you might be better off rebuilding the whole the unit before reinstalling.

**1970cstblazer** · 08-05-2024, 05:52 PM

I have recently done it, and it wasn't difficult.

NDM · 08-10-2024, 01:27 PM

Remove the air filter, distributor cap then the rest is able to be removed.

08-04-2024, 10:17 PM	#1
igrout Registered User Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Strykersville, NY Posts: 41	72 Blazer K5: Is is possible to remove distributor with engine in truck? Hello Folks, I have a 1972 Blazer K5 4x4 with a stock 350 engine setup, I tested the vacuum advance unit on my distributor today and found it to be non functional, not holding any vacuum, the diafram inside is probably toast. I'd like to proceed to replace the vacuum advance unit and my thought was to pull the distributor out to make sure I don't drop small screws down into the works, as I'm swapping in the new unit, but wanted to ask, if there is room on the 4x4 Blazer to lift the distributor out while the engine is in the truck? (seems pretty tight up against the firewall) Or do I have to swap the vacuum canister with the distributor in place in the engine? Thanks! -Ian

08-05-2024, 12:14 AM	#2
58 Special Junior Member Join Date: Apr 2023 Location: Edmonton,Alberta, Canada Posts: 82	Re: 72 Blazer K5: Is is possible to remove distributor with engine in truck? Going back a lot of years. but changed my original distributer to a GM HEI. Was done in place. Probably have to remove cap and wires. Mine was in a suburban 4X4 350. It is a tight squeeze.

08-05-2024, 12:44 AM	#3
DeadheadNM Carpe manana Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: Eau Claire, WI Posts: 12,424	Re: 72 Blazer K5: Is is possible to remove distributor with engine in truck? You should be able to remove it without difficulty whether it’s a points distributor or HEI. Label the wires, rotate the rotor toward the firewall, and mark the firewall where the rotator is aimed all before removing to make the install go easier. If it’s possible other items are worn on the distributor you might be better off rebuilding the whole the unit before reinstalling. __________________ 1972 K5 CST Highlander Blazer: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=708547 1972 K20 Cheyenne Super: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=528308 Members met: ORANGBLAZ, 2003 silverado, MikeCofield, BB72CHEVKT, Duncan&Son, Sameyrasmea72, THENEWMEXICAN, HotRod C/10, brianthelion02, Sport/Truck, ryanroo, michael bustamante, Dirt's72, Already Gone, WestButteTruck, 57taskforce, Moreyel, painterljp, AASmedic, SoCoC10, Lumaestas, carbuff382, Chevyland

08-05-2024, 05:52 PM	#4
1970cstblazer All stock and staying that way Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Elkland, PA Posts: 1,682	Re: 72 Blazer K5: Is is possible to remove distributor with engine in truck? I have recently done it, and it wasn't difficult. __________________ 1970 K/5 Blazer CST 4WD, Medium Bronze, 93k ACT. miles, 350, 4 speed, rear positraction, 16.5" x 8.25" HD wheel option, tilt, tach, vacuum, AM/FM, manual throttle...Dad ordered and purchased new 4/70. Currently frame off restoration finally getting close to completion.. 1972 Cheyenne Super 20 2WD, DK Blue/White, 90K ACT. miles, 402, TH400, 4.10 open, tilt, tach, vacuum, A/C, AM/FM, manual throttle.. A mostly original paint never rusted Texas survivor... 2017 Sierra 1500 SLT 4WD, Black, 45k miles, 5.3, 6L80E, 3.42 LS, 20" polished wheels, everything but moonroof and 6.2... 2019 Canyon SLT 4WD, White, 62k miles, 3.6, 8L45, 3.23 LS, 18" wheels

08-10-2024, 01:27 PM	#5
NDM Registered User Join Date: May 2022 Location: Illinois Posts: 189	Re: 72 Blazer K5: Is is possible to remove distributor with engine in truck? Remove the air filter, distributor cap then the rest is able to be removed.



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