Distributor: Description and Operation

The distributor is actually an assembly that contains the Camshaft Position (CKP Sensor), cap, rotor and shaft. It connects the ignition coil and spark plugs through secondary wires. The rotor directs the spark to the appropriate cylinder. The camshaft position sensor connects to the VCM through the primary engine harness and provides cylinder identification.

The Distributor is splined by a helical gear to the camshaft and rotates providing a spark to each spark plug wire. When servicing the Distributor, it is critical to ensure proper cap sealing to the Distributor body and correct installation to the camshaft. If the Distributor is installed a tooth off in relation to the camshaft, a DTC sets. The Distributor is not repairable and must be replaced as an assembly.