MSD 8474 HEI Distributor Kit Installation - Manual

M S D I G N I T I O N
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MSD Pro-Billet Ready-to-Run
Chevrolet V8 Distributor Kit
PN 8474
Important: Read these instructions before attempting the installation.
Parts Included:
1 - Pro-Billet Distributor
1 - Rotor, PN 8467
1 - Distributor Cap, PN 8433
1 - Wire Retainer
2 - 1.5" Self Tapping Screws
2 - 10-32 x 3/4" Socket Head Screws
1 - Advance Kit
Note: The terminals of this Distributor Cap require spark plug style terminals. You may need to change
the terminals and boots of your wires. MSD offers two kits, PN 8849 or PN 8848 that are supplied
with nine boots and terminals.
Note: If the gear is ever replaced, MSD Gear (PN 8531) is required for replacement due to the .500"
diameter shaft.
TIMING FUNCTIONS
Before continuing with the installation, here are a few definitions you should be aware of:
Initial Timing: This is the base timing (also referred to as idle timing) of the engine before the
centrifugal advance begins.
Centrifugal Advance: The centrifugal (or mechanical) advance mechanism is made up of weights,
springs, advance cams, and an advance stop bushing. The amount and rate of advance that your
distributor is capable of is determined by the centrifugal timing. If you ever wish to lock out the
centrifugal advance, refer to the centrifugal advance section.
Total Timing: This is the total of the initial timing plus the centrifugal advance added together.
Example: 10° Initial + 25° centrifugal = 35° Total Timing. (When checking Total timing, disconnect
the vacuum canister and plug the vacuum source.)
Vacuum Advance: The vacuum advance will advance the timing up to 10° during partial throttle
driving (with 15 lbs of vacuum). The vacuum line should be routed to a ported vacuum outlet above
the throttle plates.
Note: MSD Distributors are supplied with the heavy (slow) advance springs installed. This is to prevent
detonation in certain applications. Review the information on pages 2-4 to determine the best advance
curve for your application.
1 - 3-Pin Harness
1 - Gasket
1 - Tube of Gear Lubricant
2 - O-Rings
1 - Vacuum Advance Lockout Kit
1 - Coil Wire
1 - Blaster SS Coil, PN 8207
WARNING: Before installing the MSD Ready to Run Distributor, disconnect the battery cables.
When disconnecting the battery cables, always remove the Negative (-) cable first
and install it last.