1988 distributor question

gbh

Member
What model years can I grab a used distributor from that will work on my 1988 non turbo? I was told only 88 and 89, but now I'm hearing 86-89.

Thanks,
Gary
 
gbh said:
What model years can I grab a used distributor from that will work on my 1988 non turbo? I was told only 88 and 89, but now I'm hearing 86-89.

Still really curious about the above question. If you have any insight, please reply.

Thanks,
Gary
 
Guys...We get a lot of one off questions here for older Mazdas...I would really appreciate it if you answered the questions instead of sending new members to OTHER SITES! (notcool)
 
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grey_line.gif
</TD></TR><!-- End of Row of Result Data --><TR><!-- Brand description --><TD vAlign=top width=104 height=15>A-1-REMAN <!-- Quick Note -->
W/O DIST. MODULE </TD><!-- Part Number --><TD vAlign=top width=60 height=15>31-824</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
you can only use one from an 88-89, they changed the distributors from single vac to dual vac in 88, and they all register as different part numbers
 
Just got to work and am reading replies before I _start_ work. FWIW I appreciated being pointed to a forum that deals with my year Mazda. When I first searched for Mazda forums this was the closest one I found so I posted. In any case, I also have a 1993 Protege so its not like I'm going anywhere permanently.

One responder pointed out the single vac vs dual. The pic of the one I'm looking at is a dual vac so I think I'm OK. Follow this link and make the appropriate pulldown selections for a 1988 323 and the distributor they list covers 1986-1989. This is why I was questioning if 86-87 dists would work on my 1988.

http://www.mvreader.com/multiview/beckArnley/vehAppSearchForm.php?vehApp=1

Cheers,
Gary
 
Liquid_Ag said:
the one i pointed out is cheaper than the beck/arnely.

It was on ebay. I won the auction for $36 including shipping. A good price I think and worth taking a chance on. I'll let you guys know how it turns out.
 
gbh said:
It was on ebay. I won the auction for $36 including shipping. A good price I think and worth taking a chance on. I'll let you guys know how it turns out.

Update. The distributor came in and it is an exact replacement for mine. It included a dual port vacuum advance valve too. I installed it and my '88 is running again, though I need to find a timing light. It will be up for sale soon. What price would you guys put on the following?

1988 323 SE 205k miles
Needs:
a CV joint
complete exhaust
water pump
time for a timing belt
valve cover gasket

Has:
New brakes and distributor. Good glass and body is in real good condition. Interier is pretty good too, though the steering wheel is rough. OK tires. Runs good. Smokes slightly. I would love to get $400, but I'm think $200 to $250 is more likely.
 
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