SOHC models
1 Disconnect the battery negative lead.

2 Where applicable, unclip the screening can from the top of the distributor and disconnect the earth strap (see illustration).

13.2 Unclipping the distributor screening can - Motorcraft distributor

3 If necessary, identify each HT lead for position, so that the leads can be refitted to their correct cylinders, then disconnect the leads from the spark plugs by pulling on the connectors, not the leads. Similarly, disconnect the HT lead from the coil. Where applicable, slide the HT lead holder from the clip on the camshaft cover (see illustration).

13.3 HT lead holder on camshaft cover

Lucas distributors
4 Remove the two securing screws and lift off the distributor cap.

5 The rotor arm is a push-fit on the end of the distributor shaft.

6 Refitting is a reversal of removal, noting that the rotor arm can only be fitted in one position. Ensure that the HT leads are correctly connected.

Bosch distributors
7 Prise away the spring clips with a screwdriver and lift off the distributor cap (see illustration). On fuel injection models, disconnect the crankcase ventilation hose from the air inlet hose, then disconnect the air inlet hose from the inlet manifold and the airflow meter for improved access.

13.7 Securing distributor cap with spring clip - Bosch distributor

8 Refitting is a reversal of removal, noting that the rotor arm can only be fitted in one position.

Ensure that the HT leads are correctly connected, and on fuel injection models ensure that the air inlet hose clips are correctly aligned (refer to illustration, Section 15, Chapter 4, Part B).

Motorcraft distributors
9 For improved access, disconnect the crankcase ventilation hose from the air inlet hose, then disconnect the air inlet hose from the inlet manifold and the airflow meter for improved access.

10 Remove the two securing screws and lift off the distributor cap (see illustration).

13.10 Removing a distributor cap securing screw - Motorcraft distributor

11 Remove the two securing screws and withdraw the rotor arm (disc) (see illustration).

13.11 Removing a rotor arm (disc) securing screw - Motorcraft distributor

Note that on some vehicles, the rotor arm tip may be coated with silicone grease to assist radio interference suppression. Do not attempt to clean the grease off if it is present. If radio interference problems are experienced, consult a Ford dealer or an in-car entertainment specialist.

12 Proceed as described in paragraph 6, but additionally ensure that the air inlet hose clips are correctly aligned (refer to illustration, Section 15, Chapter 4, Part B).

DOHC models
13 Disconnect the battery negative lead.

14 Unclip the lower section of the distributor shield from the upper section, then unscrew the two securing nuts, and withdraw the upper section of the shield from the studs on the upper timing chain cover (see illustrations).

13.14a Unclipping the lower section . . .

13.14b . . . and the upper section of the distributor shield

15 If necessary, identify each HT lead for position, so that the leads can be refitted to their correct cylinders, then disconnect the leads from the spark plugs by pulling on the connectors, not the leads. Similarly, disconnect the HT lead from the coil, and release it from the clip on the timing chain cover.

16 Using a suitable Torx key or socket, unscrew the two distributor cap securing screws, then lift off the cap.

17 The rotor arm is a push-fit on the end of the rotor shaft (see illustration).

13.17 Removing the distributor cap and rotor arm

18 If desired, the rotor housing can be pulled from the timing chain cover.

19 Refitting is a reversal of removal, ensuring that the rotor arm is pushed fully home on the rotor shaft. Make sure that the HT leads are fitted to their correct cylinders. Note that the rotor arm will only fit in one position.