removing the distributor caused me a big headache a few years ago when I first started working on my truck.

My truck was timed and running pretty good. I removed the distributor to paint it and when I put it back in the truck wouldn't start.I had lost the timing position when I re installed it.

Now every time I removed the distributor I Take a few steps.

Before I remove the distributor I put the pointer on the ball, ...pic...

then I remove the cap and note where the rotor is pointing. It should be under the #1 or #6 plug wire position on the cap.

Now when I go to re-install it and it drops in, I make sure the rotor is in the same spot.

then re-time
For the experienced mechanics this may sound totally unnecessary but it helps me.