TR2/3/3A distributor drive shaft gear

[sp53]

Does anyone see a problem with a distributor drive shaft gear and shaft coming apart? I know they can come apart, but the one I am using on this project comes apart kinda easily. There is no play in it to speak of it just slips apart. I am thinking I will put some aviation sealer or something on the key and shaft and jam them together and let them sit for a couple of days. The ones I have used in the past, the gear it pretty much stuck to the shaft so fishing the gear in and out is no problem, but this one is different.

 

[TR3driver]

You're talking about the double gear that also drives the tach, and the shaft that runs down to the oil pump, correct? I believe it's normal for that joint to come apart fairly easily, they just tend to get gummed up and stuck together over time. But as long as the key is installed, having the shaft float around a bit should not be a problem in operation. It's located by the oil pump on the bottom, and a pin through the gear at the top.

 

[sp53]

Yeh correct Randall the double gear. I was thing it would not matter either. I understand there is some end float where they meet on the bushing, but I am sure this set has considerable mileage, but I will make sure there is some wiggle room with the gasket shims on the pedestal.

 

[CJD]

I rebuilt 6 of those last year. Only one was stuck, the other 5 slipped apart very easily...like pick up the gear and shaft falls out easily!

From what I understand, the critical part is the clearance between the shaft and the bushing inside the block. If the shaft and/or bushing wears, then you'll get a rattle at idle.

 

[sp53]

John where do you get all this stuff! Anyways I put some of that Red goo permatex on the shaft and gear and jammed it together because I could not get the gear and woodruff key to mesh at the same time as I was trying to get on TDC and number 1. My bushing seems very snug and I can see your point that if there is play there it would knock or rattle.