Replace rotor cap/ points when?

[Edge180]

General question as to when and if I should replace my rotor cap and points? I don't have any issues, just wondering if this is something that wears and needs replacing as a standard maintenance item?

 

[Scott Danforth]

I check under the cap every year, I replace about every 5 years

I'm guessing since you're referencing points your not talking about your Volvo in your Monterey. with points, usually you pull the cap in spring, clean them from the winter nap, verify dwell and go boating. replacing about once the points are worn. usually well over 10 years

 

[tlewis1]

I check under the cap every year, I replace about every 5 years

Same, Same

 

[Edge180]

Thanks, will do on the checking under the cap. I've never replaced the cap.
Yes, I was referring to my VP. Wasn't sure if I had points or not. Apparently not.

 

[Lou C]

Agree with the above, I have gotten at least 5 seasons out of a set of points. Cap, I check it for green corrosion on the terminals due to my boat being in salt air all season.

 

[BRICH1260]

I doubt your distributor has points. It is probably an HEI ignition system. You will still need to replace the rotor and cap every few years.

 

[Edge180]

Thanks fellas. Will pull the cap and inspect tonight. Never replaced it so if I see the green stuff, I'll replace.

 

[Augoose]

I put on a Sierra cap and rotor four years ago - this year I observed that the rotor has worn away so much of the copper contact that the plastic housing was beginning to to show wear where the rotor was passing over it. Over four years I put on about 125 hours.

 

[mikeneal]

I guess maybe the humidity of Florida is hard on them, I replaced longblock last year and during break in developed a miss and chased it and found my -18 month old cap was gross. Had about 160 hrs on it . So my answer would be "depends" but I look at it annually at least now.