willysmjeeps.com

Finishing up installing my new wire harness. Seems to be going smooth but I noticed tonight that the distributer was really warm and I had only started the jeep for about 10 seconds. Nothing else felt warm. Also when I turn the key on the temp gauge pegs out. Any ideas are welcome.

Could use a wee bit more info.

1-Is the M38's electrical system stock 24 volt?

2-Is the distributor freshly overhauled (if yes, by whom), new or nos, or used and mileage unknown?

3-Do you have the proper distributor housing ventilating tubes attached properly?

4-Have you troubleshot the temp indicating system properly with TB 9-2300-228-20 Tactical Transport and Combat Vehicles: Troubleshooting for Instrument Cluster Gages, Switches, Circuit Breakers, Sending Units and Related Wiring dated 8 July 1960. ?

http://willysmjeeps.com/downloads/instruments.pdf

Yes, stock 24volt. I went through the distributer. Replaced points, condenser and rotor, but left original coil.
Vent line to tee is on, but I don't have the one hooked up to the crossover tube yet.
Have not troubleshot the temp unit but will now.

Then I would start troubleshooting the distributor heat issue by bench checking the coil with a coil tester.

Also would add to check charging system for an Over Charge
Condition.
Higher than normal voltage will heat up the coil quickly.
Tom