DIY Distributor Wrench for the 4.3

Thought I'd show off my crappy welding skills(or lack of welding skills) by sharing a pic of my custom made Distributor wrench for our favorite 4.3.

I used my shop press to flatten a 10mm box-end wrench, then recip'd it in half and welded it to the bottom of a 6" long, 5/16" bolt. And yes, I ground the bottom of the bolt and an angle first and ground off the zinc-plating..I still need to test it out, but waiting on a new Dizzy hold-down clamp to show up first.

 

Looks like it should work like a charm! Might take a couple of tries to figure it out, though. Always like to see others who make their own tools, as I have a few laying around that have been used exactly one time and a few others that have been used 2 or 3 times.

 

Thanks AJ! Something about making custom tools is almost therapeutic. At least ya feel like you accomplished something when it's done..

I couldn't stand that hex head on top of the bolt like that, so I welded one of my "disposable", Made in China, sockets to the top now...

 

I had something like that for the 318 I had in a 71 Dodge Dart that also had the distributor on the back of the block.

Nothing like having the right too for the job!!!

Nicely done.

 

Thanks Christine! Hopefully it works the way I think it should....

 

Hold-down clamp showed up, so got a chance to try this out. Much to my surprise, it worked great, and it didn't break!

There must have been a shift in the Universe somewhere, because usually when I make something functional, it either doesn't work, or it falls apart..

 

I would much rather have a crappy looking weld that is strong than a pretty looking weld that is weak. The first option is usually how my welds are, though once in a while I do have a pretty weld or two!

 

i got my distributor out with a crowsfoot.. it _JUST_ reached! love seeing home made tools tho!