Having trouble with heavy wear on distributor gear wear on 454 in '72 SS. Using a cast iron Comp Roller Cam designed for steel distributor gears and also using a Pete Jackson gear drive. Cam button seems to be the right length with gap between button and aluminum timing cover correct. What else is there to check besides the distributor depth? How can I check the correct depth with shims? I have only worn out one gear and cam teeth still seem OK. Help!

Kevin,
There is only one thing that will wear out a distributor gear...too much load on it. Are you using an oil pump that creates a bunch of oil pressure ? That puts a lot of load on the gear. Also make sure the distributor shaft is not binding. As far as the distributor depth, my way to check it is to see if the distributor will go all the way down against the intake manifold without a gasket. If so, once you put the gasket in place there should be plenty of room. The cam button and gear drive should not have anything to do with the distributor gear wearing. Also, you did not mention what type of distributor you are using, but if it is an HEI, make certain there is plenty of end play in the shaft. I have not actually seen it happen, but have read that the GM HEI body really expands when it gets hot and needs a bunch more end play in the shaft to keep it from binding.

Hope this helps,

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Bill Koustenis
Advanced Automotive Machine
Waldorf Md

1971 Heavy Chevy - original owner
Team Chevelle #100