oil pump positioning

[Earl Baker]

Has anybody seen, heard or read how they positioned the oil pump in production in relation to the distributor drive. I have read all about how to check it and do it after the fact but has anyone learned how in production they properly synced it with the cam and distributor. I am sure when they assembled the motor in Toledo they used something to properly do this . If anyone could enlighten me when reassembling the motor it would be terrific and faster than putting on the oil pump and changing its position until everything lines up correctly. one time would be better than trial and error. Thanks and keep on Jeepin.

[Rus Curtis]

Earl,
Welcome.

I'll wager that the factory procedure is exactly how we do it when rebuilding.  Each part is installed in a specific order so I'm pretty confident it is the same as described in the Service Manual.

The process, if followed, will minimize "repositioning" the pump to get it aligned properly (yeah, I was nervous the first time I did it).  Concentrate on the paragraph on installing the oil pump for your engine.  It specifies the "clock" position when sliding the shaft into the block and then describes the use of a long screwdriver to move the teeth to mesh at the correct position and then what to see after the installation. 

I've seen old photos of factory workers doing the assembly.  With no robots or auto assembly visible, I'd assume they used flashlights and screwdrivers and other hand tools during assembly.

[SteveKfl]

I'm curious if anyone has actually seen a performance difference in "not exactly clocked to specs distributor positioning" vs "to specs clocking location"?  I had to relocate mine because the PO had it so that the lubrication filler cap was against the block restricting the timing adjustment from full 5 degrees BTC, but other than that "physical restriction" and "pure factory style accuracy placement", is there really an issue?  Just wondering and tapping into the "experienced" for your expertise.  Thanks.