How to set distributor range?

Tiny
FRANKIEDONNN
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 DODGE RAM
  • 5.2L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 122,602 MILES
I have an Autel mp808 scanner and I noticed that the distributor sync. Is saying out of range, and I am getting random misfires on the misfire monitor, also sometimes I can feel a misfire but only if I blip the throttle high; I never feel a misfire when driving though. I have never moved the distributor. Is there any reason why the range would need resetting if the distributor was never moved nor removed? Thank you for any help. Frank
Saturday, March 27th, 2021 AT 10:35 AM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,097 POSTS
Hi,

The timing isn't adjustable on this vehicle. As far as the sync issue, I would really like to know what code was found, but I suspect it deals with the camshaft position sensor. These distributors are equipped with an internal camshaft position (fuel sync) sensor. If it is failing, injection timing could be off.

If you look at the attached picture, it shows the part I am referring to. Pics 2 and three are the directions for replacement. The first thing I suggest is to remove the cap and rotor. Make sure there is no oil getting into the distributor. The distributor has an internal seal to prevent oil from entering the distributor. If the seal failed, it could be causing the issue.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Saturday, March 27th, 2021 AT 8:35 PM
Tiny
FRANKIEDONNN
  • MEMBER
  • 60 POSTS
Thanks for your quick response Joe. I understand that the distributor does not do the ignition timing, it is only the sync that I am concerned about; I think it is the sync. That is causing the misfires because it tells the PCM when to fire the injectors, but I don't want to trouble the distributor until I get another opinion. I wonder if I should go ahead and adjust the distributor sync. Using the scanner or if the timing chain could be worn and that is what is causing the problem in the first place. The cam sensor has been replaced, no oil is in the distributor. I have been at it so many times that I don't have to check. I'll leave it there for now. Thank you, Frank
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Sunday, March 28th, 2021 AT 4:42 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,097 POSTS
Hi,

As far as the timing chain, if you have changed oil on a regular basis, chances are it is fine. As far as adjusting the sync, it wouldn't hurt to try.

Let me know if it helps. Also, make sure the sync signal generator is clean and not corroded.

Take care,
Joe
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Sunday, March 28th, 2021 AT 7:36 PM
Tiny
FRANKIEDONNN
  • MEMBER
  • 60 POSTS
Thanks, but what and where is the sync signal generator? Frank
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Monday, March 29th, 2021 AT 5:01 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,097 POSTS
That is the component in the distributor. See the pic below.

Joe
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Monday, March 29th, 2021 AT 6:54 PM
Tiny
FRANKIEDONNN
  • MEMBER
  • 60 POSTS
In other words, it's the cam-sensor/ pick-up coil. I thought that might be the answer, it is just that I never heard it called the signal generator before now. In the automotive world, things have many names. By the way, I adjusted the sync. And it now says in range, but I have to drive it and see if it remains in range. I wonder if the sync has to be reset whenever the adaptive are reset because I still don't know why it was out of range if the distributor was not moved. I only recently learned that when parts are replaced that the adaptive have to be reset, and I have replaced some parts. Thanks
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Tuesday, March 30th, 2021 AT 9:06 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,097 POSTS
Hi,

I'm not sure what caused it other than possible wear. As far as resets or relearn procedures, it matters what is replaced. Usually, any sensor controlled by the PCM will require something. LOL

Regardless, let me know if it continues to work properly. Also, if you have questions in the future, please feel free to come back anytime.

Take care,
Joe
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Tuesday, March 30th, 2021 AT 5:58 PM

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