My 1980 Firebird won't start/I think because the distrubtor was misalingned?

[Mason D]

My neighbor moved the distrubtor cap and when I went to drive it it started chugging/consuming alot more gas. Now it won't even start; I think it's because the timing is off. How do I fix it?

*its a 350 chevy engine, with elderbrocks carb)

thanks!

 

[Don W]

You get out the Haynes manual and reset the distributor, if still no start then go further and replace the timing chain and gears.

 

[Country Boy]

Remove the cap and make sure the rotor tang didn't get damaged when your neighbor was playing with it. You can't just move the distributor cap. The hold down clamp on the base of the distributor and intake manifold has to be loosened first. I suspect the coil or ignition module may be shot.

If you suspect something is amiss with the timing chain or gear, remove the valve cover on the right hand side as you face the grille. Roll the crankshaft till the timing mark matches the dampener pulley. If either #1 cylinder valves are open roll it over one more rotation. Both valves should be closed on #1. cylinder.