Hi All, I have a problem with my VL, where the ignition timing is fluctuating. This problem wont allow for an increase in ignition timing due to pinging. So after investigating i think the root cause is a worn distributor drive gear. Does anyone know if you can purchase a new gear or is a second hand distributor the only option? Thanks

i think you will find its a common problem, PM HYPED6 he has coverted a rb30 to run a rb20 sensor straight off the cam which removes all timing fluctuations, and im sure he can point you into the right direction Also Rev the car past 3000rpm and watch how much the belt moves at 3000rpm, u can add another tensioner to stop the belt from moving so much

I brought a brand new drive gear straight from Nissan

Quote: Originally Posted by VLWPN6 Hi All, I have a problem with my VL, where the ignition timing is fluctuating. This problem wont allow for an increase in ignition timing due to pinging. So after investigating i think the root cause is a worn distributor drive gear. Does anyone know if you can purchase a new gear or is a second hand distributor the only option? Thanks I dont think it would be a worn gear. Have you pulled it out to look? got any pictures? It may be cas related problem.

Sorry i didnt elaborate on my "investigation" i did to come to the conclusion of the worn gear, but the root cause is the distributor gear. I just need information on where to purchase. Thanks theVLguy i'll check out that option. Thanks RB2GO i'll call Nissan tomorrow and see what is available.

hhmm..... Microtech?

Nope, its a Haltech E6X. The ECU was swapped and no change. The CAS was swapped and no change. The cam timing and crank position verified, all set correctly. The distributor disassembled and cam signal wheel cleaned, and no change. The rotor button has some play, therefore possible worn distributor gear. Will replace and hope to rectify problem. If not investigate next root cause. Any suggestions? Some original photos have not been recovered yet.

Holden part number for the gear is - VS18246 " Gear Dist Drive"

take your cam belt cover off. Grab your timing light, lock the timing on your haltech. Now slowly increase the revs of your engine and watch your timing. At the same time, watch your timing belt. You will find this is the issue. RB30's get a great harmonic where the cam belt try's to throw it self off at 3k+ rpm and where the crank sensor thinks the crank should be, its not. Confusing your haltech.

Thanks HYPED6, the cam belt is at the correct tension specification, but i will try your theory. The reason why the worn gear may be a more likely root cause is due to the fact the fluctuation occurs in revolution ranges below 3000rpm. I'll keep you updated Some original photos have not been recovered yet.

No worries man. Its not a tension problem, its a harmonic problem. RB25's do a similar thing at 1300 rpm, and then again at 6200 ish. Ideally, piss off the dizzy all together, run a waste spark setup. Pretty cheap to set up and much better timing control.