Ignition Distributors

Distributors & Parts

  • TRQ® - Distributor
    TRQ®Distributor
    0
    # sp240433
    Distributor by TRQ®. Restore your ignition system with this great product. Designed and manufactured to meet or exceed the OEM standards, this ignition distributor delivers trouble-free and long-lasting performance. Plus, it's priced to...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $57.95 - $179.95Save: up to 7%
    $56.21 - $167.35
  • WAI Global® - Ignition Distributor
    WAI Global®Ignition Distributor
    5
    # sp13166
    Ignition Distributor by WAI Global®. If your vehicle's ignition distributor wore out, WAI has you covered with the right part for your replacement needs. Precisely designed, this premium product provides the same quality, fit and...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $43.41 - $721.97
  • Cardone Reman® - Distributor
    Cardone Reman®Distributor
    2
    # sp167701
    Distributor by Cardone Reman®. Cardone Remanufactured Distributors provide reliable performance at the best price. Installing an Cardone Reman Distributor on your vehicle will ensure that proper voltage is transmitted to the spark plugs...
    50-state emissions street legalThe finest quality at a great price
    $49.79 - $438.77
  • ACDelco® - Professional™ Ignition Capacitor
    ACDelco®Professional™ Ignition Capacitor
    0
    # sp16844
    Professional™ Ignition Capacitor by ACDelco®. If you want to restore the original performance of your vehicle's ignition system, this product is what you need. Engineered to stringent OE specifications, it is sure to fit and function...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $10.06 - $22.64
  • Standard® - Blue Streak™ Ignition Condenser
    Standard®Blue Streak™ Ignition Condenser
    0
    # sp49119
    Blue Streak™ Ignition Condenser by Standard®. If you want to restore the original performance of your vehicle's ignition system, this product is what you need. Engineered to stringent OE specifications, it is sure to fit and function...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $5.53 - $11.97
  • Standard® - Tru-Tech™ Ignition Condenser
    Standard®Tru-Tech™ Ignition Condenser
    0
    # sp5479
    Tru-Tech™ Ignition Condenser by Standard®. If you want to restore the original performance of your vehicle's ignition system, this product is what you need. Engineered to stringent OE specifications, it is sure to fit and function the...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $4.40 - $8.56
  • WVE® - Ignition Capacitor
    WVE®Ignition Capacitor
    0
    # sp228089
    Ignition Capacitor by WVE®. Replace your worn-out or faulty component with this quality replacement from WVE. This product is designed and tested to ensure the ultimate in durability and functionality. Made to meet or exceed the OEM...
    Excellent replacement for your worn-out factory partDesigned to keep your vehicle running reliably mile after mile
    $8.35 - $23.84
  • SKP® - Ignition Distributor
    SKP®Ignition Distributor
    0
    # sp228122
    Ignition Distributor by SKP®. If you want to restore the original performance of your vehicle's ignition system, this product is what you need. Engineered to stringent OE specifications, it is sure to fit and function the same or even...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $27.69 - $186.54
  • Delphi® - Distributor
    Delphi®Distributor
    0
    # sp5785
    Distributor by Delphi®. Delphi OE technology ignition products are validated to match the vehicles system. OE quality replacement parts for the right fit, form and function. Designed utilizing the latest technology, this product by...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $209.12 - $270.10
  • ACDelco® - GM Genuine Parts™ Distributor Cap Bolt
    ACDelco®GM Genuine Parts™ Distributor Cap Bolt
    0
    # sp260240
    GM Genuine Parts™ Distributor Cap Bolt by ACDelco®. GM Genuine Parts Bolts are designed, engineered, and tested to rigorous standards, and are backed by General Motors. GM Genuine Parts are the true OE parts installed during the...
    Some GM Genuine Parts may have formerly appeared as ACDelco GM Original Equipment (OE)GM Genuine Parts are designed, engineered and tested to rigorous standards, and are backed by General Motors
    $1.43
  • ACDelco® - GM Original Equipment™ Ignition Distributor
    ACDelco®GM Original Equipment™ Ignition Distributor
    0
    # sp10810
    GM Original Equipment™ Ignition Distributor by ACDelco®. If you want to restore the original performance of your vehicle's ignition system, this product is what you need. Engineered to stringent OE specifications, it is sure to fit...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $260.47 - $430.56
  • ACDelco® - Professional™ Ignition Distributor
    ACDelco®Professional™ Ignition Distributor
    0
    # sp16845
    Professional™ Ignition Distributor by ACDelco®. If you want to restore the original performance of your vehicle's ignition system, this product is what you need. Engineered to stringent OE specifications, it is sure to fit and...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $73.14 - $406.60
  • Standard® - Ignition Distributor
    Standard®Ignition Distributor
    0
    # sp240412
    Ignition Distributor by Standard®. If you want to restore the original performance of your vehicle's ignition system, this product is what you need. Engineered to stringent OE specifications, it is sure to fit and function the same or...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $117.29 - $119.30
  • Standard® - Intermotor™ Ignition Condenser
    Standard®Intermotor™ Ignition Condenser
    1
    # sp17002
    Intermotor™ Ignition Condenser by Standard®. If you want to restore the original performance of your vehicle's ignition system, this product is what you need. Engineered to stringent OE specifications, it is sure to fit and function...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $3.73 - $36.54
  • Standard® - TechSmart™ Distributor
    Standard®TechSmart™ Distributor
    0
    # sp28013
    TechSmart™ Distributor by Standard®. If you want to restore the original performance of your vehicle's ignition system, this product is what you need. Engineered to stringent OE specifications, it is sure to fit and function the same...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $109.14 - $110.91
  • Bosch® - Ignition Condenser
    Bosch®Ignition Condenser
    0
    # sp136998
    Ignition Condenser by Bosch®. This first-rate product is designed with utmost care and attention to detail to replicate the OE part as closely as possible. Made from superior materials it provides the highest level of quality your...
    Crafted from high-grade materialsMade to stringent quality standards
    $6.86 - $16.62
  • Bosch® - Remanufactured Ignition Distributor
    Bosch®Remanufactured Ignition Distributor
    0
    # sp249995
    Remanufactured Ignition Distributor by Bosch®. If you want to restore the original performance of your vehicle's ignition system, this product is what you need. Engineered to stringent OE specifications, it is sure to fit and function...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $302.93 - $459.07
  • Motorcraft® - Ignition Capacitor
    Motorcraft®Ignition Capacitor
    0
    # sp194698
    Ignition Capacitor by Motorcraft®. Motorcraft ignition capacitor are designed for maximum performance and durability. This first-rate product is designed with utmost care and attention to detail to replicate the OE part as closely as...
    Manufactured to restore your vehicle’s ignition systemDesigned with your specific vehicle in mind
    $12.96
  • WVE® - Ignition Condenser
    WVE®Ignition Condenser
    0
    # sp184446
    Ignition Condenser by WVE®. Replace your worn-out or faulty component with this quality replacement from WVE. This product is designed and tested to ensure the ultimate in durability and functionality. Made to meet or exceed the OEM...
    Excellent replacement for your worn-out factory partDesigned to keep your vehicle running reliably mile after mile
    $4.20 - $360.06
  • Dorman® - Ignition Pulsator Ring
    Dorman®Ignition Pulsator Ring
    0
    # sp95252
    Ignition Pulsator Ring by Dorman®. This ignition pulsator ring is designed to match the fit and function of the original ring on specified vehicles, and is engineered for durability and reliable performance.
    Direct replacement Ignition Coil Connectors available (where applicable) to ensure a proper fitVehicle try-on testing has been conducted on this part to ensure a trouble-free performance
    $19.80
  • Cardone New® - Distributor
    Cardone New®Distributor
    3
    # sp167702
    Distributor by Cardone New®. Cardone New Distributors are backed by Cardone New Engineered (CSE) Technology, which ensures that all Cardone New Distributors meet proper form, fit and function. Cardone New Engineered (CSE) Technology is...
    50-state emissions street legalThe finest quality at a great price
    $64.10 - $699.10
  • Spectra Premium® - Ignition Distributor
    Spectra Premium®Ignition Distributor
    0
    # sp234186
    Ignition Distributor by Spectra Premium®. Spectra Premium all new Distributors deliver powerful consistent OE spark for maximum combustion efficiency, accurate timing, and rock solid high-rpm performance.
    Includes NEW OE style cap and NEW rotor100% endurance & life cycle tested to ensure they meet OEM specifications for fit, form and performance
    $80.97 - $288.28
  • Mopar® - Ignition Capacitor
    Mopar®Ignition Capacitor
    0
    # sp152042
    Ignition Capacitor by Mopar®. If you want to restore the original performance of your vehicle's ignition system, this product is what you need. Engineered to stringent OE specifications, it is sure to fit and function the same or even...
    OE quality parts from top original equipment and aftermarket manufacturersThe finest quality at a great price
    $5.42 - $30.06
  • DIY Solutions® - Distributor
    DIY Solutions®Distributor
    0
    # sp241803
    Distributor by DIY Solutions®. If you're seeking to get your steel stallion back to its tip-top condition, then this top-notch replacement solution is what you should definitely look out for. When it comes to quality, reliability and...
    Designed to help restore your vehicle to its former gloryQuick replacement to let you enjoy an awesome ride again
    $72.95 - $122.64
  • Original Engine Management® - Ignition Condenser
    Original Engine Management®Ignition Condenser
    0
    # sp127268
    Ignition Condenser by Original Engine Management®. Original Engine Management condensers are designed to exactly replace their respective O.E. units and offer these fine features: O.E.-type connectors for quick, correct fitment....
    O.E.-type connectors for quick, correct fitmentO.E.-specification capacitance values for proper system operation
    $5.51 - $14.72
  • United Motor Products® - Distributor
    United Motor Products®Distributor
    0
    # sp209894
    Distributor by United Motor Products®. Keep your pride and joy operating as it should with this top-notch part from United Motors Products. It’s made using the finest materials and advanced manufacturing equipment to ensure the...
    Excellent replacement for your worn out factory partWill help make your vehicle running as good as new
    $114.16 - $163.49
  • Original Equipment® - Ignition Distributor
    Original Equipment®Ignition Distributor
    0
    # sp252297
    Ignition Distributor by Original Equipment®. Looking for high-quality replacement parts to restore the performance of your vehicle? Then Original Equipment automotive parts are for you. They are manufactured from the finest materials...
    Perfect replacement for your damaged or worn out original partMade using high-grade materials for long-lasting dependability
    $299.87 - $525.96
  • PerTronix® - Flame - Thrower™ "Stock - Look" Distributor
    PerTronix®Flame - Thrower™ "Stock - Look" Distributor
    1
    # sp104655
    Flame by PerTronix®. Designed utilizing the latest technology, this product by PerTronix features premium quality and will perform better than advertised. Perfect for your vehicle and lifestyle, it is manufactured to meet or exceed...
    All new lightweight cast aluminum housingHigh dielectric strength cap and rotor with brass contacts
    $184.45 - $353.45
  • PerTronix® - Flame - Thrower™ Automotive Billet Distributor
    PerTronix®Flame - Thrower™ Automotive Billet Distributor
    0
    # sp104656
    Flame by PerTronix®. Developed with leading technological advancements by PerTronix, this first-rate product will take the performance of your ignition system to a completely new level. It complies with rigorous industry standards for...
    Will boost the ignition system performance furtherUp-to-date design and premium-grade materials
    $385.95 - $459.95
  • PerTronix® - Ignitor II™ Module for Stock-Look Distributor
    PerTronix®Ignitor II™ Module for Stock-Look Distributor
    0
    # sp109102
    Ignitor II™ Module for Stock-Look Distributor by PerTronix®. Developed with leading technological advancements by PerTronix, this first-rate product will take the performance of your ignition system to a completely new level. It...
    Will boost the ignition system performance furtherUp-to-date design and premium-grade materials
    $165.45




All late model cars and trucks are equipped with electronic, distributorless ignition systems. On the latest COP (Coil on Plug) systems an ignition coil is directly connected to the spark plug in each cylinder and spark timing is computer controlled based on input from sensors and internal programming. But from the early days of the automobile until well into the 1980s, combustion in an engine’s cylinders was initiated by voltage from a single coil that was directed to each spark plug by a distributor and spark plug wires, and for most of that time the distributor also mechanically controlled spark timing with breaker points and advance weights. Distributors contain a number of wear components that require periodic adjustment or replacement, and distributor defects can cause no-starts, hard starting, and poor performance and fuel economy. Whether you’re doing a tune-up and regular maintenance or want to repair an engine operating problem, you’ll find all the distributor components you need right here on our digital shelves.

A typical distributor consists of a shaft that rotates on bushings inside a cast iron or aluminum housing. Attached to the bottom of the shaft is a gear that’s driven by the camshaft. The distributor shaft also drives the oil pump on many engines. The distributor rotor is mounted at the top of the shaft and along with the distributor plate and triggering and advance mechanisms it’s enclosed inside a distributor cap. The distributor cap, made of phenolic or plastic, attaches to the top of the distributor housing with clips or screws. It contains terminals at the cap perimeter for each cylinder and a terminal in the center that connects the rotor with the ignition coil. Most distributor caps have a center terminal that connects to an external coil with a high tension lead, but on some distributors the coil is mounted directly to the cap. The rotor distributes the ignition coil voltage to the individual cylinder towers on the cap as the distributor shaft rotates. The spark plug wires attached to the distributor cap cylinder towers deliver the voltage to the spark plug in each cylinder.

Current flowing through the ignition coil’s primary windings creates a magnetic field. When that current flow is interrupted the collapsing magnetic field produces an electric current in the secondary windings, which is stepped up to the 15,000 – 40,000 volts needed to jump the gap between the spark plug electrodes and ignite the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders. Current flow is interrupted by the triggering mechanism in the distributor – mechanical breaker points or electronic components. In the mechanical system, a cam on the distributor shaft has lobes that correspond to the number of cylinders. The breaker points, also called a contact set, are mounted to a plate adjacent to the cam. A rubbing block on the arm of the point set rides on the cam, with the lobes opening the points. When the points are closed, current flows and the magnetic field builds up in the coil – this is the dwell time. When the cam lobes open the points, the magnetic field collapses and voltage is sent to the spark plugs. A capacitor called a condenser is included in the circuit to reduce arcing and burning of the contacts.

While it’s reduced by the condenser, during engine operation there is still some arcing at the points, which causes erosion of the contacts, and coupled with rubbing block wear this changes point gap, dwell and timing, adversely affecting performance and emissions. To eliminate the frequent adjustment and replacement required by breaker points, vehicle manufacturers began switching to electronic triggering mechanisms in the late 1960s and early 70s. Electronic control offered several advantages; there were no mechanical parts to wear and more voltage to the spark plugs could be provided for more efficient engine operation. In place of the cam on the distributor shaft, electronic distributors have a reluctor with teeth that correspond to the number of cylinders, and instead of breaker points a magnetic pickup or hall effect switch is mounted on the distributor plate. As the distributor rotates and the reluctor passes the pickup or sensor, a signal is sent to an ignition module, which contains a transistor that closes and opens the primary circuit to create and collapse the magnetic field and produce the voltage sent to the spark plugs.

It takes time to fully ignite the mixture in the cylinders, so spark plugs are typically timed to fire a number of degrees BTDC (Before Top Dead Center) on the power stroke, so the full force of combustion can be applied to the pistons. This is called initial timing. However, as RPM increases the spark plugs must fire even earlier. To advance the timing distributors have a centrifugal advance mechanism consisting of weights and springs. As engine speed increases and the distributor shaft rotates faster, centrifugal force pushes the weights outward, which in turn moves the distributor cam to change timing. The springs control the rate of advance. Beginning in the 1950s, vehicle manufacturers began installing vacuum advance mechanisms. Vacuum advance advances the timing during vehicle operating conditions like highway cruising, when engine load is light and vacuum is high, to increase engine efficiency. The vacuum canister is mounted to the distributor housing and contains a diaphragm that is attached to the distributor plate. Engine vacuum pulls on the diaphragm and the plate to advance timing. Eventually spark advance also became electronically controlled on distributor ignitions.

Along with breaker points and condenser, the distributor cap and rotor are also considered wear items that must be periodically replaced. Check the cap terminals and rotor for evidence of corrosion, erosion, carbon tracking and cracks. Voltage must jump the gap between the rotor tip and distributor cylinder terminals, and these are common wear areas. Although electronic triggering mechanisms are much more reliable than breaker points, distributor shafts and bushings can wear, resulting in excessive play and an improper gap between the reluctor teeth and pickup or sensor. Vacuum advance diaphragms can fail, and centrifugal advance mechanisms can get sticky and immobile, resulting in insufficient advance, poor performance and overheating, and centrifugal advance springs can break, causing too much advance too soon and pinging.

No matter what vehicle you’re working on or whether you have mechanical breaker points or electronic ignition, we have the replacement distributors and related components needed to restore proper performance, reliability and fuel economy. We offer distributors and components that are manufactured to original equipment specifications, so when repairs are completed you can count on the performance your vehicle was designed to deliver. In addition to an extensive selection of complete distributor assemblies, we also offer all the distributor related components needed for tune-ups and repairs including contact sets, condensers, distributor caps and rotors, ignition pickups and sensors, reluctors, vacuum advance canisters, and much more. And if you want better performance and reliability with less maintenance, we have electronic ignition conversion kits to replace the mechanical breaker points on most popular vehicles.

Upgrade your factory distributor with a performance cap and rotor. We offer tough, alkyd compound caps with brass inserts, which resist corrosion and provide better conductivity. Get more precise and consistent spark timing, and eliminate the need for breaker point replacement with an electronic ignition conversion kit. Or get these features and more with a performance distributor. Our distributors are available with dual points or electronic ignition, and some even feature preprogrammed or custom advance curves, with housings turned from billet aluminum and shafts that turn on oil lite bushings and/or ball bearings.

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Distributors Reviews

51 reviews
Everything about this distributor cap was great. Arrived on time, easy to install, I have more than 3000 miles on it already and there is no problem at all. Would recommend.
Posted by Sergio (Lynwood, CA) / April 27, 20211987 Nissan Stanza
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