How to find out which distributor we have? (bus won't start)

[ruth11]

My husband has just asked me to ask this question. As he's not usually a complete numpty I assume he's looked at what's on there and can't tell....

So, are there any tell-tale signs to distinguish which distributor we have?

Our bus is a '69 cali import... 1600 refurb engine fitted in the states last March.

Reason he's asking is because after having the bus for a few months and it starting first time every time, even after sitting for a couple of months, it's suddenly decided not to start. He says it has fuel, is pumping fuel and has spark, they've even tried putting fuel directly into the carb but it will not fire or try to. So he's thinking maybe the condensor has gone - he's now trying to figure out which condensor he needs just in case....

Thanks

 

[Justin & Muttley]

The distributor model numbers should be stamped on the outside (metal part) of the distributor body - the lettering is fairly small so a bright torch and keen eye are sometimes needed.

Once you've found the number you can look it up here:

http://www.oldvolkshome.com/ovhignbo.htm

and more info here:

http://www.oldvolkshome.com/ignition.htm

Has he checked the timing statically???

Let us know if there are any more questions...

 

[ruth11]

Thanks :mrgreen:
I've passed the info on and will be back if more is needed

 

[Justin & Muttley]

 

[ruth11]

Right, from the above links, we find that we have the following:


Distributor: VW 113-905-205AN, Bosch 0231 167 070 > 043-905-205C, 0231 176 028
Can Use: VW 113-905-205AJ, Bosch 0231 167 049
Points: 01 011
Points Replacement Plate Assy: VW 311-905-227C, Bosch 1237 110 161
Condensor: 02 054
Rotor: 04 033
Dust Cover: 039-905-241, Bosch 1230 500 139 > 1230 500 147
Cap: 03 010
Distributor Cap Clip: 034-905-265, Bosch 1231 251 033
Parts Kit (Shims, Washers & Hardware): 059-998-211, Bosch 1237 010 007
Coil: 00 015 (Blue Coil: 00 012)
Vacuum Can: 07 102
Ignition Wires: 09 001
Spark Plug: W8AC
Timing Set At:: 5deg ATDC @ 800-950rpm w/strobe, vacuum hose(s) connected
Advance/Retard Range: Vacuum: 5-8deg Adv, 11-13deg Ret; Centrifugal: 6-12deg @ 1500rpm, 22-25deg @ 3800rpm

Question is, does anyone know what the part number is for the condensor here in the UK? I've searched for that part number and can only find places in the US selling them.......

Thanks

 

[Araon]

You've stated what should be fitted (as per the links) and the options but not what is fitted....

call GSF with your part number for your distributor (its on the body) they have 4 versions on their web site.....

 

[ruth11]

That results list that I posted above was a list generated based on the details on the distributor that IS fitted....

I'll check out GSF - never heard of them but found them on google, so thanks for that

 

[Araon]

so which one is fitted and out of curiosity what engine is fitted engine number stamped beneath genny pedestal....

 

[ruth11]

It's this one

0231 167 070

I don't know the engine number at the moment as the bus is currently with the welder. It got to him fine and then broke whilst it was there.