I need to remove the distributor for the purpose of replacing the o-ring on its shaft. Can I just pull it out, after marking the correct positions of the rotor and the housing or do I need to turn the engine first to DTC for cylinder No. 1?

1992 Honda Accord manual, 2.2

Please advise.

 

No need to mark the rotor. Only mark the position of the distributor base where it mounts against the head. The mounting bolts are slotted so you can twist the distributor to adjust the spark timing.

The actual spinning shaft inside can only fit one way. There's a blade that's off-center that fits nicely when it's correct. If you get it backwards it won't fit nice & you'll need to force it in. That's your clue that it's wrong...

The BEST way is to get a timing light & adjust the spark timing properly after you put the distributor back on.