Ignition Distributor

Ignition Distributor & Parts, NZ

The ignition distributor is a critical component of a vehicle’s ignition system, responsible for routing high voltage from the ignition coil to the spark plugs in the correct firing order. This electromechanical device sees to it that combustion happens exactly when it should. Without the right combustion timing, the engine wouldn’t give its best performance, the car wouldn’t always start, and the fuel wouldn’t be as efficient as you’d like it to be.

Meta V Parts offers a comprehensive range of high-quality ignition distributor parts to keep your vehicle running smoothly. For a complete overview of related components, you can also check out our general ignition parts.

Ignition Distributors: How They Work

An ignition distributor has a rotating shaft, typically driven by the engine’s camshaft or crankshaft. As this shaft spins, a rotor arm passes by a series of contacts inside the distributor cap. Each contact connects to a specific spark plug via an ignition lead. When the rotor aligns with a contact, a high-voltage electrical pulse from the ignition coil jumps the gap, travels down the corresponding lead, and fires the spark plug. For this process, timing is everything. Without the exact right timing, the air-fuel mixture in the cylinder wouldn’t ignite at the moment it needs to.

Key Components of an Ignition System Distributor

  • Distributor cap: Covers the distributor and provides the terminal connections for the spark plug leads.
  • Rotor: A spinning component that directs the high voltage to the correct terminal in the cap.
  • Breaker points (in older systems) or pickup coil (in electronic systems): These components signal the ignition coil to generate a spark.
  • Advance mechanism (centrifugal and vacuum): Adjusts the ignition timing based on engine speed and load to optimise performance and economy.

Vehicle-Specific Ignition Distributors

Finding the correct part for your vehicle is essential for compatibility and performance. Whether you need an ignition distributor for a Toyota or an ignition distributor for a Nissan, we’ve got you covered. Each unit meets or exceeds OEM specifications, ensuring a perfect fit and dependable operation alongside other critical components like the ignition barrel. Get your next ignition distributor — or the ignition distributor parts you need — at Meta V Parts, where autofiles can find the quality they seek.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of a failing ignition distributor?

Common symptoms include the vehicle not starting (especially in the cold), rough idling or stalling, a shaking engine, and a high-pitched squealing noise.

Can I drive with a bad distributor?

We don’t recommend this. A faulty distributor can lead to poor engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and potential engine damage. You may even become stranded!

How often should an ignition distributor be replaced?

There is no set replacement interval for the entire distributor assembly. However, components like the cap and rotor are regular service items and should be inspected and replaced per your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.

What is the difference between electronic and point distributors?

A points-style distributor uses mechanical breaker points to trigger the ignition coil; in contrast, an electronic distributor uses a non-contact magnetic pickup coil or Hall-effect sensor, offering greater reliability and less maintenance.

Is the firing order important when replacing a distributor cap?

Yes, it is critical. The spark plug leads must be connected to the new distributor cap in the same firing order as the old one. An incorrect firing order will cause the engine to misfire badly or not run.