Distributor O-Ring Repair & Replacement

Stop Oil Leaks & Prevent Engine Damage Today!

Don't let a failing distributor O-ring compromise your engine's performance. Ourcertified mechanicsspecialize in precise O-ring repairs for all makes and models.

Industry-leading24-month/24,000-mile warranty
ASE-certified technicians
Same-day service available
All makes and models serviced

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Distributor O-Ring Repair Service Costs

Basic O-Ring Replacement
A simple distributor O-ring replacement typically takes 30-45 minutes to complete. This includes removal, cleaning, and installation of the new O-ring.
Estimated Cost: $60-95(labor only)

Distributor O-Ring with Shaft Seal Replacement
When both the O-ring and shaft seal need replacement, the service usually takes 1-1.5 hours. This includes complete distributor removal, cleaning, and reinstallation.
Estimated Cost: $125-190(labor only)

Complete Distributor Service
Full service including O-ring replacement, shaft seal, cleaning, lubrication, and timing adjustment requires 1.5-2 hours.
Estimated Cost: $190-250(labor only)

Note:These estimates are based on our standard labor rate of $125/hour. Parts costs are additional and vary by vehicle make and model. Some vehicles may require additional time due to accessibility or complexity.

All services include:

  • Professional diagnosis
  • Quality OEM or equivalent parts
  • 90-day labor warranty
  • Complete system inspection

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Distributor O-Ring Replacement Guide

External O-Ring Replacement

The external O-ring sits between the distributor housing and the engine block.

Steps:
  1. Remove the distributor cap and note rotor position
  2. Disconnect battery negative terminal
  3. Mark distributor position relative to engine block
  4. Remove distributor hold-down bolt/clamp
  5. Carefully lift distributor from engine
  6. Remove old O-ring from distributor housing base
  7. Clean O-ring groove thoroughly
  8. Apply clean engine oil to new O-ring
  9. Install new O-ring in groove
  10. Reinstall distributor in original position
  11. Secure hold-down bolt/clamp
  12. Reconnect battery

Internal O-Ring Replacement

The internal O-ring seals the distributor shaft where it enters the housing.

Steps:
  1. Remove distributor from engine (follow steps 1-5 above)
  2. Remove rotor and dust cover
  3. Remove internal shaft retaining clip
  4. Carefully extract distributor shaft
  5. Remove old O-ring from shaft or housing
  6. Clean O-ring seat thoroughly
  7. Install new O-ring
  8. Apply dielectric grease to shaft
  9. Reassemble distributor components
  10. Reinstall distributor in engine

Important Notes:

  • Always use high-quality replacement O-rings designed for automotive use
  • Check for additional damage while components are disassembled
  • Verify proper timing after reinstallation
  • Replace both O-rings if one shows signs of wear

Warning: Improper installation can lead to oil leaks and potential engine damage. If unsure, please consult a professional mechanic.

Understanding Distributor O-Rings

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A Distributor O-Ring is a circular gasket used in automotive distributor systems to create a reliable seal between different components. These O-rings play a crucial role in maintaining proper engine function and preventing contamination.

Main Types of Distributor O-Rings:

Base O-Ring
Located at the bottom of the distributor where it meets the engine block. This O-ring prevents oil leakage from the engine and keeps dirt and debris from entering the distributor housing. A failing base O-ring can lead to oil leaks and potential distributor damage.

Shaft O-Ring
Positioned around the distributor shaft, this O-ring seals the shaft where it enters the distributor housing. It prevents oil from traveling up the shaft and contaminating the distributor's internal components. A worn shaft O-ring can cause oil to seep into the cap and affect ignition performance.

Cap O-Ring
Found between the distributor cap and housing, this O-ring helps keep moisture and contaminants out of the distributor's internal components. It's essential for protecting sensitive electrical connections and maintaining proper spark distribution.

Seal O-Ring
Used in various locations within the distributor assembly to create waterproof and dustproof seals. These O-rings help maintain the integrity of the distributor system by preventing external contamination.

All distributor O-rings are typically made from high-quality rubber compounds designed to withstand heat, oil, and chemical exposure while maintaining their sealing properties over extended periods.

Maintenance Tip:It's recommended to inspect distributor O-rings during regular maintenance and replace them if signs of wear, hardening, or damage are present to prevent potential engine issues.

Common Failure Symptoms of Distributor O-Ring

Distributor O-Ring Maintenance Guide

Primary Distributor O-Ring

Signs of failure:

  • Oil leakage around distributor housing
  • Engine oil pressure drops
  • Oil spots under vehicle after parking
  • Visible cracking or hardening of the O-ring
Service schedule: Replace every 60,000-75,000 miles or if signs of wear appear. More frequent replacement may be needed in extreme climates.

Secondary (Upper) Distributor O-Ring

Signs of failure:

  • Oil seepage at top of distributor
  • Oil contamination in distributor cap
  • Irregular engine timing
  • Visible deterioration or flattening
Service schedule: Replace every 50,000-60,000 miles or during distributor cap service. Inspect during routine maintenance.

Shaft Seal O-Ring

Signs of failure:

  • Excessive play in distributor shaft
  • Oil contamination on distributor components
  • Rough engine idle
  • Visible wear or damage
Service schedule: Replace every 45,000-55,000 miles or when rebuilding distributor. Inspect whenever distributor is removed.

Note: These are general guidelines. Actual service intervals may vary based on vehicle make, model, and operating conditions. Always consult your vehicle's service manual for specific recommendations.

How It Works

  • Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
  • Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
  • We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
  • Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
  • All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.

What we need from you

  • A safe place to work on your vehicle
  • No working on the side of busy roads
  • No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
  • We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
  • Authorization from a property owner or management.
  • Repair work done in a parking lot or at your  requires permission.
  • We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.

Common Questions

Service Area

Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville,  Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming

Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.

Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.

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