Distributor Caps

Our range of distributor caps can make all the difference Lucas DDB113 Lucas DDB108 Lucas DDB101 Lucas DDB107 Distributor Caps Made to the highest standards ideals to replace your existing distributor cap or keep as a spare

Of the many parts one would find in a car, the least understood are distributor caps and the distributors it covers. A distributor is what allows the energy from the battery and wires to be distributed evenly and with precise timing to the corresponding spark plugs that are aligned with each cylinder in the engine. If an engine has eight cylinders, then the eight spark plugs would need a jolt of electricity in a specific order and for a very short, but within an accurate time frame. The v8 distributor cap, with its corresponding eight posts, would protect the distributor and the rotors that spin the distributor to make perfect contact.

A distributor cap sits on top of the distributor and has the exact amount of posts and ignition wires to make contact with the spark plugs. This mechanical element is also used so much that it can get worn quite easily. Distributor caps can be replaced fairly easily but it would depend on the condition of the distributor cap and the wear and tear it experienced before needing to be replaced. In fact, distributor caps and rotors are usually the first parts to get worn and replaced.

Typically, if you are having problems starting your car, it is quite likely due to a damaged or worn cap. Replacing worn distributor caps and rotors need not be difficult as long as the casing is not badly cracked. Many times the cap gets corroded from exposure to damp or wet conditions. The problem with removal tends to happen when the corrosion builds up to a degree that it gets stuck. Removal is still possible depending on the type of cap, i.e. it is a side entry distributor cap or a top entry distributor cap.

Checking under your cap regularly is also highly recommended as a preventative maintenance procedure for your vehicle. The caps can tell a story about your car and its engine such as if too much voltage is coming through or the distributor is missing the connection to the spark plugs or if constant moisture under the hood is causing erosion and accumulating corrosive build up. Knowing what’s going on ahead of time can save you a lot of money in repair bills and prevents aggravation and headaches in the future.

The most common caps are the top entry distributor cap and they are quite accessible to reach and change. If you have a side entry distributor cap, the concept is the same but just a bit different when needing to change.

The Lucas distributor cap and the Bosch distributor cap are two of the most widely used and popular brand names in the automotive industry. The quality and consistent performance is unmatched. You may already have one of these on your distributor. A quick check will let you know if you have the original cap from the manufacturer or if the cap has already been replaced. It’s a good to check your car’s manual to see whether the Bosch distributor cap is best for your vehicle or if the Lucas distributor cap will work better.

Those of you with high performance engines will need to replace the cap with a v8 distributor cap since most engines have eight cylinders. The high power speedsters fit more in the 12 cylinder category, thus needing a cap with twelve posts.

Cleaning your distributor cap is quite simple. After removal, check under the cap and look for any dirt or carbon build up. Take a look at the vent to make sure it is free from debris. A small brush can get rid of most dirt and clear up any clogs. Avoid using compressed air for it may cause further damage to the distributor cap.

If you know you will need to replace the distributor cap, be sure to also check the rotor button to see if it is damaged before replacing the cap. If the new cap matches the old one, then you’re ready. Take your time when replacing the wires because each spark plug is in a specific firing order. Replace one spark plug wire at a time to ensure proper installation. When placing the distributor cap back on, make sure it covers the rotor button properly and secure it the way it is originally manufactured either with pins or screws. Turn on the engine and see if it starts properly. If all is well, it should turn over quickly and easily. However, if there is any rough running or just doesn’t feel right, check to be sure the cap is on correctly. Making sure your distributor cap is running properly ensures a longer life for your car.