Is my distributor off a tooth or two?

[Linda M. Brooks]

I need some help/advice guys and gals!  The short story: I purchased my '64 deVille in 2011 from dealer in Utah.  Drove it home with a couple of minor issues to Virginia.  Started working on headlight switch, undr dash pad vacuum tubing, etc.  Due to work schedule, etc, I let the car sit until this year - I know, I've beat myself up enough.

Going through anything that may give me trouble (hoses, cap/rotor/points/condenser, belts ...) on the 2,200 mi trip home to Montana.  I just replaced my pts/condenser, found my vacuum advance is bad (ordered one), and was starting to swap the plug wires onto the new cap when placement of #1 didn't look right.  Firing order is 18726543, and the workshop manual's picture of the cap with wire numbers marked shows #1 between screw and window, and #8 next, at the corner of the window, CW.  The way it was wired is #1 is CCW two positions.  The firing order is correct and the car ran well back then.

Am I nuts or did the rebuild mechanics get the distributor in wrong and made up for it by clocking the wires to get it to run?  The shop manual that came with the car is marked with highlights, stars and question marks, leading me to think this may have been their first rebuild.

I'm new at posting, will try to add photos.  Thanks in advance for any help,

Linda

[Dennis P. DiBari]

Hi Linda,

     Your comments are the best.  I would pop in the new check valve and the new 11/32 hose for the booster - can't hurt.  You're right; the parts stores don't carry that special hose - thought I was from Mars!  Now that your advance is in, you should be good to go.  Thanks for the compliment on my Caddy.  Safe trip back to Big Sky Country.  Take your time.

Dennis

[Linda M. Brooks]

Thanks Dennis, I'll install the new check valve and grommet (if it fits), the hose is new - I meant to say 11/32", so good to go there.  OPGI can get the Bendix booster rebuild kit, but hope mine is good enough to get me home.

Thanks for the advice and conversation, not many people I know like to talk old cars.  Best wishes,

Linda

[Dennis P. DiBari]

OK Linda,

     Good trip and we'll talk soon!!  You are very welcome.

Dennis