I just got done putting in the replacement o-ring on the distributor and
found the rotor pitted and the distributor cap terminals encrusted with
corrosion. The problem is the cap is the MSD modified cap (for use with
external coil) and costs over $40 to replace!
Question #1: is there a way to continue to use the existing cap to
stretch the useable lifetime (recommend any cleaners?)
A jewellers file or something that has the same fine cut as said file is what you need to use to clean up those contacts and you'll want to do it very carefully. If you have a Dremel tool or something similar, head down to the local hobby shoppe and/or hardware store and pick up a sanding bit that is very fine (I don't know the actual grit but it will almost be like paper) and then you'll want to use a very slow speed setting.
Usually, I will take an Exacto knife and carefully scrape the edge that is burnt/pitted.
To blow out debris, I use canned air very carefully.
I've done this with many of my Bosch caps from my past cars as a sort of "cheap" way to extend the life until I could get an actual new-replacement. :^)
Question #2: does anyone know of a third party source who just carries
the cap (MSD's kit comes with a new coil wire which I don't need, hence
the high price
)?
(* snip *)
My understanding is that the coil wire needs to be replaced when the cap is to ensure performance and reliability. $40 (USD) is a lot but that's sort of the trade off and price one pays for performance. FWIW, the stock dizzy cap for our BMW use to cost me $80 (USD) and there were a few places where I could get it for about $50. Plug wires, anywhere from $250 to $350 for a set - although if you were part of the BMWCCA, you could get them for about half that.
CRX Owners Group President (http://www.crx.org/southcal)
1990 Honda CRXsi (http://www.hooligan.cc)
ICQ # 3714283 (nickname: godzilla)
Julian Drive (San Diego County) - February 22, 2003
http://www.crx.org/southcal/events.html
