Timing chain slop

[Unclewolverine]

As suggested by another member I took off the distributer cap and measured the amount I had to turn the crankshaft backwards before the distributor started to turn. I started it a 0 degrees and it turned 9 degrees on the timing cover. That seems excessive. Is that too much? Also my distributor shaft seems to have a lot of slop, but my distributor out of my parts motor seems to have a lot too. Is this normal?

 

[75SV1]

The distributor should only have .001 movement. So, if you can sense it, then replace it. The chain from the FSM is 1/2 inch deflection max. I just did mine with a NAPA chain. It didn't tighten it up much. I did use a Cloyes Roller set. It was a bit tight getting it installed. Also, replace the rubber damper.