How to Replace the Distributor in an Acura Integra

If you're planning to change the distributor in your Acura Integra, you'll have easy access in the engine compartment. In models from 1990 to 2001, the Integra used distributors in its 1.8L, 2.2L, 2.3L, 2.5L and 3.0L engines. If you own one of these, you can replace the distributor without buying any special tools.

Instructions

Replacing Distributors in 2.5L and 3.0L Engines

1

Look for the distributor on the left side of the engine block, as you face the engine; find it by the spark plug wires leading to it. Then unhook the negative cable from your battery.

2

Pull loose the spark plug wire and use a screwdriver to unscrew the coil wires from the distributor cap. Label their positions so you can reattach them in the proper sequence.

3

Loosen and remove the distributor's harness connector or connectors with a wrench. Mark the distributor housing position relative to the valve cover or engine block. Do this to ensure the distributor can be installed in the exact position.

4

Unbolt the distributor mounting bolts and remove it from the cylinder head. Take out the old O-ring and replace with a new one. Lightly oil the new O-ring before installing on top of the distributor housing.

5

Align the marks made during the removal process. Install the new Integra distributor, making the lugs on the distributor shaft end fit exactly into the grooves on the camshaft end. The part number will differ by manufacturer, so know your year and engine size when ordering.

6

Replace the mounting bolts, then tighten down. Reconnect the spark plug cables and the coil wires to the distributor, as well as the negative battery cable.

Replacing Distributors in 1.8L, 2.2L and 2.3L Engines

7

Locate the distributor on the left side of the engine, as you face it. Find it by the spark plug wires leading to it. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

8

Unscrew the engine wiring harness and connectors from the distributor, using a screwdriver. Label and disconnect the spark plug cables from the top of the distributor cap. If you have to remove the ignition coil, first take off the distributor cap. Then remove the rotor, next the distributor cap seal and finally the leak cover. Use a screwdriver to remove the two screws connecting the wires to the coil.

9

Use a marker to mark the position of the distributor housing compared to the engine block. This will ease the re-installation process. Remove the two screws, then lift the ignition coil from the distributor housing. Unbolt the distributor hold-down bolts with a wrench, and remove distributor from cylinder head.

10

Replace the old O-ring with a new one on the distributor housing, lightly oiling the new O-ring. Slip the Integra distributor into position. The part number will be 83677N for a 1.8L distributor from Parts Train, but parts numbers differ by manufacturer.

11

Line up the match marks from the removal process. You'll notice that lugs on the distributor's end are offset from matching grooves located in the camshaft end so you won't install the distributor 180 degrees off.

12

Hand-tighten the hold-down bolts. Put the ignition coil back in the distributor housing; screw in the two mounting screws. Reconnect the two wires onto the coil and replace the two other screws. Put the leak cover back in place, then the rotor, the cap seal and the distributor cap.

13

Reattach the harness for the engine wiring and the harness connector to the side of the distributor. Reconnect the spark plug cables, checking for proper position. Reconnect the negative battery cable and tighten the distributor hold-down bolts.