Caterham Super Sprint Distributor

[plbs1234]

I have a 1986 Caterhan S-3 Super Sprint.  I’m having trouble getting the engine from idle to full throttle. When I step on the throttle the engine bogs down and I have to pump the throttle to get it to rev. Above 2000-3000 rpm it runs fine. My distributor has. Vacuum unit attached, but it is not attached to any vacuum source. Did Caterham use a distributor with a vacuum advance,but not use it?  What should the advance be at idle?

 

Thank you,

 

Paul Mascuch

Idaho

[coffee break]

I'm guessing this is a crossflow with Webbers. 

[MV8]

10deg btdc, which is typical of most engines but I'd run 12 or so if there is no detonation on your hills with your fuel quality. If there is no mark and just a pointer, you can add a mark for 10 on the pulley using a couple different methods to be accurate or use a dial-back timing light and the tdc mark.

I expect it is a standard electronic ignition, vacuum advance, centrifugal advance distributor for a euro market escort with a 1600 that is the basis for the Super Sprint 1700 dual carb, which has no provision to connect the vacuum advance to "ported vacuum" (provides no suction at idle or WOT). The vac unit rotates the breaker plate and fills a hole in the side of the distributor so to remove it would require a few small, hard to find parts or ingenuity. I'd leave it be.

I also expect the 1700 spec distributor uses softer springs on the flyweights or in keeping with tradition, one of the two is simply removed for the additional benefit of "adding lightness".

Regarding the off idle bog, make sure the rotor rotates by hand a few degrees easily and springs back. If it doesn't, some work is required to clean the weights and lubricate or change/remove a spring.

If the distributor seems ok and has little to no discernable shaft side play, It is likely your carbs just need a thorough cleaning.

[MV8]

Here is a diagram of the earlier points type distributor showing the weights and springs. I found it in one of my Motor manuals printed in the '60s. The electronic type is very similar.

[Anker]

I disagree that it is a distributor problem. It is much more likely that is an acceleration pump issue.

 

Anker

[plbs1234]

Coffee Break - Yes it is a crossflow with dualWeber DCOE 40’s.

 

Since my post I have torn down the carbs and found 3 of the 4 accelerator pump jets plugged.

 

Paul

[IamScotticus]

Plenty of electronic dizzys out there programmed for the Xflow.

Aldon Ignitor on mine.  They take a lot of the guess work out of setup.  all you do is adjust to full advance and dizzy does the rest.

Not to put too fine a point on it...

 

Timing has to be right of course. 

Edited July 5, 2022 by IamScotticus