How to set points

Here's a picture of a bunch of burned up Pertronix Ignitor modules.

Here's what you need

  • A feeler gauge.
  • A flat tipped screwdriver.

Procedure

  1. Check the points to make sure the electrodes aren't burnt or pitted, and that the opposing surfaces are relatively flat.  If the points need to be replaced, skip down to "Replacing points".  Usually the points and condensor should be replaced as a pair.
  2. Rotate your motor so the plastic contact bearing on the points is at the high point on one of the corner lobes, so the points are all the way open.
  3. Insert your feeler gauge to make sure it will fit between the electrodes.  Most air cooled VWs specify .016 (.4 mm).  AFC will operate between .016 and .018.  Contact should be slight, but the electrodes shouldn't move further apart.  Check to make sure the next biggest size of feeler won't fit.
  4. If the gap isn't correct, loosen the hold down screw until the points will just barely move and use a flat head scewdriver to lever against the small lobes on the advance plate (where the points are attached to the distributor) and the notch on the points.  One lobe will allow you to close them, and the other will open them.  Use the feeler gauge to set them to the right gap, tighten the hold down screw, and follow the previous step to verify the gap is right.
  5. Replace the distributor cap and time your motor, since changing the points gap impacts timing.

 

Replacing Points

Here's what you need

Procedure

  1. Remove the distributor cap and set it aside.  Leave the plug wires attached.
  2. Loosen and remove the hold down screw, being careful not to let it drop into the distributor or cooling tins.
  3. Disconnect the black wire inside the distributor from the connector on the condensor.  Disconnect the condensor from the terminal on the coil.
  4. Remove the points and set aside.
  5. Make sure the new points are the same dimensions as the old ones, and spread some of the grease on the black plastic friction bearing onto the contact point.  This will make the friction bearing last longer.
  6. Put the new points in place, making sure the rivet on the bottom is fully seated in the dimple provided in the advance plate.  Replace the hold down screw and tighten it to be snug but not tight.
  7. Remove the screw holding the condensor to the side of the distributor, and slip the plastic grommet out of the distributor body.  Do the reverse to install the new condensor, and reconnect the connector to the black wire on the points.
  8. Set the points as described above.