Dave Plowman <dave.sound@argonet.co.uk> wrote in message
news:4c198d82b1dave.sound@argonet.co.uk...
> In article <bg5be3$mrv$1$8300dec7@news.demon.co.uk>,
>    Stephen <usenet@magna.demon.co.uk> wrote:
> > I've got a MK1 Austin Heally Sprite with a Morris Minor 1100 engine and
> > a Maxi distributor.  I can't get it started althought it used to go.  Is
> > there a correct orientaton of the rotor arm for #1 TDC?  The distributer
> > can go on in two ways with it pointing about 2:00 O'clock or 4:00
> > O'clock.  The #1 TDC is clearly marked on the flywheel with 5 and 10
> > degree advance marks.  Is there a correct position for #1 plug lead in
> > the cap?
>
> The TDC position can be one full revolution out as regards the firing
> stroke on number one cylinder, so first you have to make sure it's
> correct. Do this by either removing the rocker cover and checking both the
> valves on no 1 are closed, or by removing the plug and putting a finger or
> thumb over the plug hole and turning the engine by hand until you feel the
> compression.
>
> Once you're happy it's correct, the rotor arm in the distributor should
> point at the appropriate terminal in the dizzy cap.
>
> However, IIRC, the drive dogs on an A Series dizzy are offset, so can only
> go in one way. It's possible the drive has been removed and replaced
> incorrectly - this is easily rectified. If you'd like instructions on the
> correct replacement of the drive I've got them somewhere.
>
> --
> *What boots up must come down *
>
>     Dave Plowman     dave.sound@argonet.co.uk     London SW 12
>      RIP Acorn

Still no joy - can I confirm that #1 is the front and #4 is the back?  Does
it matter what the orientation of the distributor body is, or can it be
anyway rotated as long as it points to #1 when the flywheel marker is in the
right place and the valves on #4 are changing over from inlet to exhaust?
Do you think I need a strobe?  The engine has been "re-manufactured" and is
very difficult to turn by hand.  It would be easier if I could use the
starter.

Stephen