Distributor
The HT383E includes a new OE distributor. The distributor is actually an assembly that contains the camshaft
position (CMP) sensor, the cap, the rotor, and the shaft. The distributor is splined by a helical gear to the camshaft
and rotates providing a spark to each spark plug wire. When servicing the distributor, it is critical to ensure proper
cap sealing to the distributor body and correct installation to the camshaft. If the distributor is installed a tooth off
in relation to the camshaft, a DTC P1345 sets in the VCM. Position of the distributor is important for allowing the
VCM to determine which cylinder is in the firing position if a misfire occurs. The distributor position has no effect
on ignition timing. All ignition timing is determined by the VCM by using the crankshaft position sensor (CKP).
Caution
This engine assembly needs to be filled with oil and primed. You should add the specified oil (see start-up
instructions) to your new engine. Check the engine oil level on the dipstick and add accordingly.
Start-up and Break-in Procedures
1. After installing the engine, ensure the crankcase has been filled with 10w30 motor oil (non-synthetic) to the
recommended oil fill level on the dipstick. Also check and fill as required any other necessary fluids such as
coolant, power steering fluid, etc.
2. The engine should be primed with oil prior to starting. Follow the instructions enclosed with the tool. To
prime the engine, first remove the distributor to allow access to the oil pump drive shaft. Note the position
of the distributor before removal. Install the oil priming tool, part number 141-955 from our licensed partner
factoryperformanceparts.com. Using a 1/2" dill motor, rotate the engine oil priming tool clockwise for three
minutes. While you are priming the engine, have someone else rotate the crankshaft clockwise to supply oil
throughout the engine and to all the bearing surfaces before the engine is initially started. This is the sure
way to get oil to the bearings before you start the engine for the first time. Also, prime the engine if it sits for
extended periods of time. Reinstall the distributor in the same orientation as it was removed.
After the engine has been installed in the vehicle, recheck the oil level and add oil as required. It is also good
practice to always recheck the CMP offset after removal and reinstallation of the distributor. See step 4 or
engine specifications for the proper distributor information.
3. Safety first. If the vehicle is on the ground, be sure the emergency brake is set, the wheels are chocked and
the car cannot fall into gear. Verify everything is installed properly and nothing was missed.
4. Ignition timing is non adjustable on this engine. The high voltage switch (distributor) must be installed correctly
for proper camshaft position (CMP) retard offset or the service engine soon light will be illuminated and DTC
P1345 will be set in the powertrain control module. (see GM service information for details)
5. When possible, you should always allow the engine to warm up prior to driving. It is a good practice to allow
the oil sump and water temperature to reach 180°F before towing heavy loads or performing hard acceleration
runs.
6. Once the engine is warm, verify correct camshaft position (CMP) retard offset using a scan tool.
7. The engine should be driven at varying loads and conditions for the first 30 miles or one hour without wide
open throttle (WOT) or sustained high RPM accelerations.
8. Run five or six medium throttle (50%) accelerations to about 4000 RPM and back to idle (0% throttle) in gear.
9. Run two or three hard throttle (WOT 100%) accelerations to about 4000 RPM and back to idle (0% throttle) in
gear.
10. Change the oil and filter. Replace with 10w30 motor oil (non synthetic) and a PF25 AC Delco oil filter. Inspect
the oil and the oil filter for any foreign particles to ensure that the engine is functioning properly.
11. Drive the next 500 miles under normal conditions or 12 to 15 engine hours. Do not run the engine at its
maximum rated engine speed. Also, do not expose the engine to extended periods of high load.
12. Change the oil and filter. Again, inspect the oil and oil filter for any foreign particles to ensure that the engine is
functioning properly.
13. Do not use synthetic oil for break-in. It would be suitable to use synthetic motor oil after the second
recommended oil change and mileage accumulation. In colder regions, a lower viscosity oil may be required
for better flow characteristics.
HT383E Re-Power Kit
TITLE
19132024
REV 05AU14
PART NO.
6
27
SHEET
OF