Ignition: How do I identify point 1 on distributor cap v8 55 E7?

[tviner]

I am trying to figure out how to identify point 1 on the distributor cap for my 55 v8. Rewiring the cylinders to the cap and don't know where 1 is. I have heard it is the first point left of the condenser.

Please help. Have the parts book but don't have the manual yet.

Thanks.

[BobPalma]

It can be anywhere you want it, Tom, but you must start with the #1 cylinder on Top Dead Center (TDC).

Bump the engine (short jabs with the starter motor) and watch the valve action and piston position (rocker arm cover off and #1 spark plug removed) until you are sure both valves are closed and the piston is at the top of its stroke.

Then, and only then, remove the distributor cap and note to which terminal the distributor rotor is pointing. That termnal (the one to which the rotor is pointing) is the #1 spark plug terminal. BP

[StudeRich]

What Bob said, plus if you want to know the "Book" correct position, it will be directly forward, front and center, that should point the Vacuum Advance straight to the Passenger fender, to the right of the car.

Then remember to go Counterclockwise from # 1 around the Cap, per the Firing Order in raised numbers on the front of the Intake Manifold.

[tviner]

Thank you, both. Very helpful. Going to try to get her to fire up tonight (first time in 40 years).

[53commander]

This is a good article.

[tviner]

Thanks for the diagram. I have marked the cap wires and have taken all the plugs out (that was a new experience. Surprised by how physical that was). I had the order for all but 2 and 4 because those plug wires had been disconnected. I now (using the diagram) have all of them. Thanks for that.

Does anyone have sage advice about upholstery/interior? I want original looking seat covers and got a sample but there is a six month wait. Anyone have other ideas? I am going to have a local place re-pad and put the seats together, i just don't want to wait 6 months.

[rkapteyn]

Starlight interiors may have a complete set already to go.

http://starlightstude.wordpress.com

Robert Kapteyn

[tviner]

Robert: Thanks for the tip, but their site says that the earliest model they do is 59. I have a 51 and 55 so I don't think they will be able to help. It is possible that a 59 seat cover would work on a 55 -- I can't imagine the seat changed much. Do you happen to know?

Tom

[StudeRich]

Wait just a second Tom, we have to clarify something here from your 55 E7 in Post #1, it sounds like we are dealing with TRUCKS here. That is a horse of a different color!

I am not aware of ANY upholstery available for those.
I am pretty sure Starlight's Interior Parts are almost all 1962 and newer NOS stock, with very few of anything back to '59, but ALL for CARS.

This is what I had done locally to my '62 Transtar 7E13 1 Ton Dually: