88SubGL

DMV always seems to be a pain. Glad you got it worked out.

The best way is to compare the wiring diagrams for both distributors. Of course, if you don’t know if ‘87 distributor is off a carburetor or fuel injected car, that might make it more difficult. But I don’t know if there was a difference between the two.

If you’re going to flip the engine, shoot carb cleaner in the holes. It should wash it right out.

You could try using a shop-vac.

I love the technical terms used in the illustration. Haha.

You may have to backtrace your wiring to find out where you are loosing power to the distributor or coil. Check the fusible links, both ends, power going in power going out.

First thing you need to know is why was the car parked, sitting for 20 years. Second, distributor cap off and try starting, to if the rotor is turning. If it isn’t, then you have a broken timing belt.

I, personally, would not worry about the temp gauge. To me, that’s where I would want it to be, about the middle. I have never owned an EA81, but my ‘04 Nissan, my daughter’s ‘02 Outback and my wife’s ‘17 Legacy, all run in the middle.

Glad you got it worked out. To hot not to have a/c.

Was the air in the cabin getting cold? If so, it sounds like something in the wiring or possibly a low pressure switch, but I’m not an a/c tech by any means.

What! I can’t believe everything I read on the internet? Haha.

From what I can see, that car looks surprisingly solid. Nice find!

Have you taken this thing to a muffler shop and let them take a look at it? They’re probably going to be in the position to tell you what’s going on.

Just me personally, but I run the timing at whatever the engine like’s best. To me, the factory gives you a starting point. I’m sorry, I know that doesn’t answer your question.

Just a guess, but you probably need to look at ones for, perhaps ‘82-‘84, to make sure you get gaskets for an ea81.