I just replaced the intake manifold gasket with a lot ofhelp from these forums. This was a major project for me and I think I bit off more than I can chew. I am trying to get the distributor back in and it doesn't want to sit down on the block. If I rotate it one tooth or so, it will drop down, but the blazer won't start with it in that position. Are there only 2 positions the distributor can be in? I have researched other threads and sawsome suggestions say that it might be off 180 degrees. I have checked for compression in the #1 plug to get TDC but maybe it's off. Help!

 

What are you driving? If it is a 2nd gen, try the EDI Timing thread in the Tech Article (DIY) section.

What is happening is that your oil pump drive has slightly rotated out of position and is prohibiting you from dropping the distributor down properly. You can reach down into there with a long screw driver to move it, but you have to be good. I use an old distributor with the gear removed to set this.

 

It's a '99 4.3L. Thanks, I'll check out that thread. This thing has really been bugging me.

 

Another trick is to get the distributor to "seat " all the way down. Then pull it up just enough to be able toturn the rotor one position clockwise, then re-seat distributor. Keep doing this till you get it around to where you want it.

 

I think I got it, but it still won't start. It acts like it wants to for about a full rotation and then kind of seizes up and the instrument panel goes black for a second and then it all starts again. I have now run the battery down, so it's on a charger.

 

OK,
I didn't have it in right and burned out the starter while trying to get it to turn over. I was getting fairly frustrated and irrate. So, I had it towed to my mechanic and almost all is well. (I knocked some dried up coolant into the engine and I am pretty sure the thermostat needs to be replaced). That one I am sure I can tackle. Thanks again for all the help. These forums rock!