22
Install The Adjustable Rotor
1. Install the adjustable rotor MSD PN 84211 or PN 8421 on to the distributor shaft (See note below for
applications)
2. Set the phasing of the adjustable rotor by putting it retarded (opposite of
distributor rotation) 15˚ on the
rotor indicator. See Pictures for reference.
NOTE: For standard GM size MSD distributors, use rotor PN 84211. For larger, Ford style MSD
distributors it is recommended to fit the distributor with a smaller cap (PN 8433) and the PN
84211 rotor. If the larger cap must be used, try rotor PN 8421.
Install The Distributor
NOTE:
If the engine block or heads have been milled, make sure that the distributor will fully seat and not bind or
bottom out on the oil pump drive. A quick check is to remove the distributor gasket, and make sure that the
distributor still fully seats on the mounting surface. If it does not, further investigation is needed
.
1. Rotate the crankshaft in the direction of engine rotation until it reads 15 degrees before top dead center
(BTDC) on the compression stroke if it is not already there.
2. Install the distributor gasket on the base of the distributor. Some adhesive can be installed on the
distributor side if desired to hold it in place.
3. If the engine has already been broken in/run previously and is about to be fired immediately after the
distributor install, coat the gear with motor oil. If the engine is new or will sit a while before it is fired,
coat the distributor gear with a moly paste or camshaft break-in lube.
4. Position the rotor contact so it is pointing to the desired direction of the #1 spark plug wire. Insert the
distributor and insure that it is fully seated
(see NOTE at beginning of section).
The rotor will rotate
as you insert the distributor. If it is does not land in the location you desire, remove the distributor and
back it up a tooth or two at a time until you are satisfied with its location. You will need to make sure the
oil pump drive shaft is turned in a direction that allows for the distributor shaft to mesh with it. You may
have to turn the shaft with a long screwdriver or Allen wrench to position it.
NOTE:
An engine oil
priming tool is an ideal alternative to aid in aligning the oil pump drive shaft. Make sure that the drive
shaft meshes and the distributor fully seats.
5. Install and snug the distributor hold down.
6. At this time you should test fit the distributor cap ensuring that the #1 cylinder terminal aligns with the
rotor. You should move the body of the distributor to correct for any misalignment at this time.
7. Finish tightening the distributor hold down and install your cap and plug wires in the correct firing
sequence for your engine.
8. Connect the 2 wire connector on the distributor to the matching connector on your Sniper EFI power
harness. Connect the white points output wire either to the Holley coil driver module or the Points input
wire on your ignition box. Refer to the following wiring diagrams to complete the wiring.
9. Refer to The Ignition Timing Check section for directions on initial startup and how to sync the
distributor.
Clockwise Rotation
Counter-Clockwise
Rotation
Neutral Rotation
