I think...going by my used up memory...the shaft should measure .485-.490 so a set collar with a 1/2 hole will work.


Forgot to mention they usually only have one set screw. I put two more in the collar so I have three. I'm just chicken like that.

Ill see if i can find a collar that fits snug on the shaft. Thanks

What i could do is take the roll pin out of the collar thats on the msd shaft now and see if the guys at the local nut and bolt store can match it up another collar to that one, but with a screw in it..

I shimmed mine years ago to have .002-.003 up n down movement and added a rubber/nylon bushing instead of the collar and it compresses nicely when the lock down is tightened. I also added a new bronze gear and had Pettis machine the difference off the gear to add a 3-piece torrington bearing deal and the timing is more stable than ever..........The bronze bushing and gear don't seem to play well together and wear quickly.........

Ok thanks Dom. Ill see if i can find something in nylon instead of metal.

Dom has a good point about taking the play out of the distributor shaft as well. I always do it, just forgot to mention it.

If you do both your timing will be rock steady.

Its been in my plan to tighten it up to .005. I have to remove the pinned collar any way. Hoping to really dial the timing in.

Go to Tractor Supply and get a 1/2" collar for $1.25...unless you just like paying $20+ for the same part. I've had one in my hemi for probably 5 years now. Fixed the same issue you're having.

Does the tsc collar fit the shaft snug?

IIRC it fit pretty good. Like I said, been in there for around 5 years...no trouble. Must be good.

They don't have to fit real tight.

Like I said...I'm a chicken so I add two more set screws. I've never had one come loose and I've done probably 40 of them over the years.

Ok. Then ill just go to tsc then. I may already have one. Just have to go thru my nuts and bolts can. Second thought, ill go to tsc. Its quicker.

I've spent hours looking for a bolt I could have run to town and bought. Someday I'll organize that stuff better.

Believe me, i understand.

Anyone have a a reference photo they can post? I am pretty sure I understand but a Photo would be great. Thanks.

If you had no problems with a Firecore distributor in the same engine, my money is on the MSD as the culprit. I have seen several in the past few years that had crazy timing issues. MSD quality isn't what it used to be.

See what i can do.

a touch of blue or red loctite on the screw [after properly cleaning the screw and collar] would ease your mind about things coming loose in operation. just remember if using red [the permanent stuff], a touch of heat will be required to remove the screw. also, my local ACE hardware has those in stock for $1.00 and change. and is only a block from my house vs tractor supply, which is 18mi. away. [i like them both. ] you would be surprised at what ACE carries in auto related items !

Perfecto.

I have to go to Ace i a bit . see i can find one and maybe add another screw.