Does anyone know the differences between 1979 and 1980 distributor? They both were electronic ignition vs. points. EPC shows distributor cap, and rotor button are different from 79 to 80. I know Igniters are different, but are distributors the same? I am wanting to use the 1979 cap and button on my 80. I have found NOS cap and rotor I want. But part numbers are different. Looking at picture of rotor the 79 is flat on top where it meets center contact of cap. But 80 has a dome top. I am thinking as long as both get changes @ same time I should be alright, but would like someone who has seen both distributors side by side to firm this up. Thank you!

 

both are bolt down, not clipped

 

You should always replace the cap and rotor together anyway. That being the case, there shouldn't be any difference between the two years as long as they get swapped together. If there is a difference, I would assume that it would be the cap height, but with the matching rotor, you shouldn't have a problem.

 

Cool. Thank you. That's what I was thinking too. I'll report back when I get them and let you know the verdict. I am a stickler for Japanese parts, and these came up, but wasn't sure. the 80 rotor and button from Toyota doesn't cost too much more than what I found, but I'm a curious person, so..


I have a 76 timing cover on this engine and it worked fine, just have to order older style water pump without center hole drilled. the 76 timing cover was nice too, because it did not have the water outlet on the back of the drivers side. My 80 had a block off plate there. still had to get the correct block off plate for passenger side from LC to compensate for the lack of water choked carb.


M

 

I replaced the dizzy on my 1980 with an HEI unit. I still have the OEM dizzy if you have need of it.

 

Thank you, Dizzy is good for now, but always looking for spares. This truck is going to be here forever. My youngest son has already claimed it. Which is pretty cool.


My oldest Daughter turns 15 this week, and when she was little I was driving an 85 VW rabbit convertible(Cabriolet) She loved the car and told me she wanted it, Well next week she will be learning to drive in her 85 1.8 8v Cabby! I'm more excited then she is I think.


Mwisham I'll send PM


M

 

This morning I pulled my Denso plug wires off my truck (made somewhere other than Japan) and installed my pretty blue NGK's (should have gotten them in the first place but I assumed Denso would also be Japanese)


Pulled my cap and rotor button in preparation for my new cap and rotor button to be delivered by mailperson. Cap and rotor arrived beautiful NOS Japanese!


Long story short 79 was a one off year distributor cap was smaller in circumference than 80-90 something. 1979 was the predecessor of the 20R 22R e ignition system but not quite the same. oh well live and learn. If anyone has a 79 and needs a Japanese YEC cap and rotor or 2 "doh" let me know!


M