How to Remove the Distributor on a 1993 Toyota Celica

The distributor on the 1993 Toyota Celica regulates the spark going to each spark plug based off the engine's timing. If the contacts inside the distributor start to corrode or deteriorate, the sparking going to your spark plugs weakens. This causes the engine to run rough and could cause the vehicle not to run at all. If this happens, you must replace the distributor with a new one.

• 1

  Turn the crankshaft pulley to align the timing mark on top dead center. The TDC indicator is visible though a hole in the timing chain cover located on the front of the engine.

• 2

  Disconnect the negative battery cable using a socket and ratchet.

• 3

  Place a piece of blue painter's tape on each spark plug wire. Denote on the tape the number next to the location where the plug wire connects to the distributor. This will help you when you connect the wires to the new distributor.

• 4

  Pull each plug wire off the distributor cap by pulling up on the plug wire boot.

• 5

  Disconnect the wiring harness connected to the distributor. The harness has a plastic tab in the center of it. Push in on the tab and pull the harness off the distributor.

• 6

  Remove the distributor hold-down bolts using a socket and ratchet.

• 7

  Pull upward on the distributor to remove it from the engine.