Re: ihc-digest V5 #37

[<hofs@domain.elided>]

>For your engine / distributor combination, IH gives two point gap settings...
>0.019" for new contact points and 0.016" for reset (used) points.  I assume
>the reason for the difference is to take into consideration the thickness of
>carbon buildup on the point surface after they have been in use for a period
>of time.
Your response is very well done and appropriate, and I comment only for 
the intellectual exercise. I think that the reason for the wider setting 
on new points is that the fiber or plastic arm extending from the moving 
point on new points has a more or less square surface that is not a match 
for the distributor shaft surface and consequently because of their 
reduced surface area, they wear down quickly at first. On previously used 
points, the surfaces of the point and the shaft are mated, and wear is 
more consistent. In other words, on new points, much wear probably takes 
place in the first couple hundred miles.
John

John Hofstetter
Life Member, National Rifle Association
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