Abstract: A distributor (10) includes a magnetic ring (14) mounted on an intermediate shaft which is directly coupled to a camshaft (20). A sensor (54) has a known position with respect to the poles on the magnetic ring (14) and is mounted to a stationary portion of the engine (22).

Abstract: A method of assembling a distributor (10) includes integrally mounting a magnetizable ring (14) directly to a camshaft (20) and establishing magnetic poles on the ring (14) when the engine is in a known position. A sensor (54) has a known position with respect to the poles on ring (14) and is used to generate information about engine rotation.

Abstract: A lock-down assembly for a commutation rotor in a fixed mount high voltage ignition distributor. The assembly allows for angular adjustment of the rotor about its axis prior to lock-down in proper position with respect to a predetermined point on the fixedly mounted base and the corresponding timing position of the engine.

Abstract: A hollow tubular structure of a distributor rotor driveshaft having a relatively high coefficient of thermal expansion is mated with an axially aligned metal driving member having a relatively low coefficient of thermal expansion. The tubular structure contains an internal socket configuration which conforms with and surrounds the external surface of the metal driving member. Rotational driving forces are communicated from the metal member to the tubular structure throughout a wide range of temperatures due to a compression spring that surrounds a portion of the tubular socket to restrict its expansion.

Abstract: A rotor formed with an integral hold down spring for use in a high voltage distributor to maintain a predetermined height in the commutation cavity.

Abstract: A high voltage ignition distributor having a plurality of removable spark plug terminals which, when mounted on the distributor, extend from the outside to the commutation cavity inside the distributor.

Abstract: A labyrinth vent path is defined by the side walls of a mated cap and base of an ignition distributor. The vent path is biased open by a spring molded into the dielectric portion of the distributor rotor.

Abstract: A unitary structure is formed to function in a high voltage ignition distributor as a common high voltage conductor and a bearing mount for a rotor driveshaft.

Abstract: In a high voltage ignition distributor having a plurality of removable spark plug terminals which, when mounted on the distributor, extend from the outside to the commutation cavity inside the distributor. The distributor includes means within the commutation cavity for aligning the removably mounted terminals in a prescribed manner.

Abstract: A mechanism molded into the base of a high voltage distributor for mating with a fixed post, wherein the mechanism mounts and retains the distributor in a fixed position on an engine housing.

Abstract: A lightweight distributor rotor driveshaft formed as a unitary structure. The unitary structure includes a socket member for engaging the rotationally driven element in the engine, at one end, and a mounting bearing surface configuration at the opposite end. The rotational bearing surface formed at the opposite end of the rotor driveshaft provides self-lubricating bearing surfaces which slide over fixed metallic surfaces within the distributor housing.