Rebuilt 1600 CT engine- distributor driveshaft won't mesh

[rogerhacker]

I have completely rebuilt a 1600 CT engine (1980 Type 25 VW Camper), including a crankshaft regrind, new bearings, new cylinders, pistons, heads, etc. On trying to drop the distributor driveshaft back into place to mesh with the crankshaft skew gear, I find it will not engage with the skew gear. I am reluctant to use any force, as the skew gear on the crank seems to be made of brass or some similar soft metal. Any ideas what might be causing this problem and how it might be solved? Roger Hacker (rogerhacker@hotmail.com)

[ivy]

hi; had exact same problem before with AS 1600 bay engines. Youre right not to force it-I got a bit heavy handed with one & it does mash easily. Sorry but forgot how I sorted it-I think it was patience,plenty of oil around it (madame!) & possibly turning the crank back a bit to help it spiral in..? Sorry to not have a magic answer but I remember the frustration too......
;)