The engine in a 1986 Chevrolet Caprice uses a distributor, which controls the operation of the spark plugs. The cap on top of the distributor connects all of the spark plug wires to the spark plugs. Over time, the inside components of the distributor cap can wear out, causing the distributor to lose effectiveness and reducing the engine's performance. The distributor cap needs to be replaced every 20,000 miles or so; if you follow the replacement process in a systematic and organized way, you can change the cap in under 15 minutes.
Tools Used: Phillips-head screwdriver, Replacement distributor cap
Install Distributor Cap
Pop the hood of the vehicle. Locate the distributor cap on top of the distributor (the cap has all of the spark plug wires connected to it). Unscrew the cap from the distributor, using the Phillips-head screwdriver, then lift it off the distributor without disconnecting any of the spark plug wires.
Place the replacement distributor cap next to the original cap, making sure they are both in the exact same orientation.
Pull up one of the spark plug wires from the top of the original distributor cap, using a twisting motion. Transfer the plug wire to the exact same post on the replacement distributor cap, pushing it in place until it makes a popping noise. If the two caps are oriented in the exact same way, then there should be no risk of crossing any wires.
Repeat step 3 for the remaining spark plug wires on the distributor cap. Install the replacement cap onto the distributor, using the Phillips-head screwdriver.
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