Could an old Distributer cause engine knock?
Yes the distributor can cause spark knock. It is one of the more mis understood parts on a car other than the carburetor. First off, the reason for spark knock is either detonation or preignition. Either one will destroy an engine and quickly. I do not recommend you driving this engine until you get the problem corrected. The reason it is running worse by the time you get it home is because your problem is increasingly getting worse as you drive. You are building heat in the engine which leans the fuel out more than it is when it is cold. Timing set to high will do this. But too much compression will also do it. You could have sharp spots in the combustion Chambers and that will will also cause the problems. Your distributor needs to be checked out by a qualified mechanic. He needs to check for correct initial timing. he needs to check for rate of advance and when it starts its advance. He also needs to check your total timing. Most small blocks shouldn`t be run over 36 to 38 degrees t
