What is this called? (Distributor related)

[mike93lx]

Please take a look at the attached file...I'm talking about the plastic thing that is attached to the distributor and is where that harness connects to.

I accidentally cracked it when I was installing a new thermostat and pulled it away from the distributor. without the zip ties, it doesn't ground and the car won't run.

can I replace it without pulling or replacing the entire distributor? where can I buy one?

Thanks!

 

[Daggar]

Thin Film Ignition Module (TFI for short)

Nearly any parts store will have them.

 

[mike93lx]

thanks dagger. i was thinking tfi but didn't want to sound stupid if it wasn't right.

is that an easy replacement with the distributor still in the motor? also is there any reason to upgrade to an aftermarket?

 

[Daggar]

Yeah... about a 10 min job if done correctly.

Do yourself a favor and buy a TFI wrench from the parts store when you buy the TFI. All it is is a little plastic wrench that fits inside of the screw hole openings (your typical socket will not fit).

Remove the old and clean the surface on the dizzy (I use brake cleaner applied to a rag and NOT the dizzy).

Apply the thermal compound to the plate on the TFI (should come with the TFI)

Apply di-electric grease to the plug reciptcal on the dizzy (may or may not come with the TFI, buy separate if not)

Slide the TFI "up" into the connector then press it against the dizzy (try not to "slide" the thermal compound actross the surface of the dizzy.

Install the screws with your handy new plastic wrench and plug the wires back in.

 

[mike93lx]

mint, thanks Daggar.

last question. stock replacement is $36 from 50resto.com and they have an accel for $52. any reason to upgrade?

they also carry the tool that you're talking about, so I'll definitely grab that.

 

[Foxfan88]

id just get the parts store one, i payed 30$ i think for mine a couple weeks ago.


i had to loosen the hold down bolt and rotate the dizzy to get it off, so i had to reset the timing after i got it back on.

 

[88GTAbuser]

I wish I had bought the proper removal tool, I ground the crap out of a socket and nearly stripped the head any way. Its a small cost for the aggravation's it causes with out it.

 

[Foxfan88]

hehe the tool is the way to go. its only like 3 bucks

 

[85_SS_302_Coupe]

Definitely go with the tool....also some people will say it's a good idea to carry a spare TFI and the tool in your glove box...i've heard horror stories of them going out for no reason at all but it's never happend to me (back when i had an EFI car anyways). They really don't give you any warning when they go out...the car just doesn't work.

 

[facemelter71]

Mine went out one day comin home from taco bell.Drivin behind a semi and it just took a dump.The two hold down screws in there are 5.5mm.Replace the coil to while your there.Also check codes to see if the PIP went out with it.

 

[mike93lx]

facemelter, the module is functioning fine and the could is almost brand new. I just need to replace it because I screwed up and cracked the plastic housing when installing a new t-stat.

Thanks for the help everyone.