Oil Pump Driveshaft Install

[restomodmusclecar]

I am replacing my distributor in my 440, and the oil pump driveshaft came out with it.  I had to use a brass hammer and gently tap it off.  I am going to install a new one, Mopar Performance.  I tried to install the old one to determine how difficult it would be, first time and all.  I had to tap it on the new distributor.  Should it fit that tight?  Is there a trick to lining it up on the cam?  It's not wanting to go in all the way, I don't want to force it.  I plan on putting it at TDC will that help with alignment?  Thanks for your help  -Matt

[68CoronetRT]

With the motor at TDC, the dist. slot should be running long ways with the cam, so front to back of car. Might need the priming tool in order to get the oil pump drive hex lined up enough to get the teeth to drop in correctly.

Use a screw driver to twist the gear in and out of place. Works well.

[BSB67]

With the motor at TDC, the dist. slot should be running long ways with the cam, so front to back of car. Might need the priming tool in order to get the oil pump drive hex lined up enough to get the teeth to drop in correctly.

Use a screw driver to twist the gear in and out of place. Works well.

Long screw driver

When you are at TDC, this could be for #1 or #6 cylinder.   It does not matter for the drive shaft, but you will need to know which it is to get the correct rotor orientation for the distributor install.

[BLK 68 R/T]

The oil pump driveshaft should not be stuck to the distributor, unless it had some seriously built up crud and sludge that baked itself in there. The 2 should fit together and come apart with no tools required.

[restomodmusclecar]

It's off, not sure how but as you can see it's not aligned   .  I ordered a new one.  Thanks for the help -Matt