Distributor Cap Replacement Guide for the 1967-1972 Dodge Dart
Keep your classic Dart's ignition system reliable by learning to spot and replace a failing distributor cap.
- A bad distributor cap is a common cause of misfires, hard starts, and stalling on a 1967-1972 Dart.
- Visually inspect the cap for cracks and corrosion; replacement is the only fix for a damaged cap.
- Replacing the cap and rotor together is a simple, inexpensive DIY job that takes less than 30 minutes.
- Quality aftermarket brands like Standard Ignition and Walker Products are excellent choices for this vehicle.
Symptoms of a Failing Distributor Cap
A distributor cap is a wear-and-tear item that operates in a hot, high-voltage environment. Over time, the plastic can crack and the metal terminals inside can corrode or wear down. When this happens, your Dart will let you know with several common symptoms.
- Engine Misfires or Rough Idle: This is the most common sign. A worn or cracked cap can't deliver a consistent spark, causing the engine to run rough, shake, or hesitate during acceleration. You might feel vibrations when the car is stopped at a light.
- Hard Starting: If the cap has cracks, moisture can get inside, especially in cold or damp weather. This can prevent the engine from starting or make it take a long time to turn over.
- Stalling or Backfiring: An engine that stalls unexpectedly or backfires could be suffering from a faulty distributor cap that is failing to deliver voltage properly.
- Unusual Noises: Sputtering, clicking, or squealing sounds from the engine bay can sometimes be traced back to a problem inside the distributor.
Visual Inspection is Key
The easiest way to check your distributor cap is to look at it. Remove the two clips holding it down and inspect the inside and out for cracks, carbon tracks (tiny black lines), moisture, or corrosion on the metal terminals. All Chrysler products from this era originally came with a tan-colored distributor cap.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Distributor Cap
For a classic vehicle like the 1967-1972 Dodge Dart, aftermarket parts are widely available and often meet or exceed original quality. Since OEM Mopar parts can be harder to find, a quality aftermarket cap is a smart choice.
Brand Options: Standard vs. Walker
Both Standard Ignition and Walker Products are reputable brands for ignition components.
- Standard Ignition (Standard Motor Products): A long-trusted brand among professional mechanics, Standard is known for producing high-quality parts. Their distributor caps often use high-dielectric, glass-reinforced resin for durability and solid brass terminals for better electrical connections and corrosion resistance.
- Walker Products: Walker focuses on creating parts that are an exact OE fit, making installation simple. They use heat-resistant materials to withstand engine vibration and high voltage, ensuring reliable performance that meets or exceeds original specifications.
Pro Tip: When you replace the distributor cap, it's always a good idea to replace the distributor rotor at the same time. They wear out together, and it's an inexpensive part that is critical for performance.
Distributor Cap Replacement Cost for 1967-1972 Dodge Dart
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Standard, Walker) | $17 - $35 |
| New OEM (Mopar Performance) | $25 - $50 |
| Shop Labor | $40 - $80 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my Dart's distributor cap?
Distributor caps and rotors are considered regular maintenance items. It's a good practice to inspect them during every major tune-up and replace them if you see any signs of wear, or automatically every 20,000-30,000 miles to prevent issues.
Is replacing a distributor cap a difficult job?
No, this is one of the easiest maintenance tasks you can perform on a classic Dart. It typically involves releasing two clips, transferring the spark plug wires one by one to the new cap to maintain the correct firing order, and securing the new cap. The entire job usually takes less than 30 minutes.
Do I need special tools to replace a distributor cap?
Usually, no special tools are needed. The cap is held on by metal clips that can often be released by hand or with a flathead screwdriver. It's important to label or carefully transfer the spark plug wires to ensure they go to the correct terminal on the new cap.
What's the difference between male and female style caps?
This refers to the type of terminal the spark plug wires connect to. Your Dart's original distributor uses a female/socket style cap where the wire ends plug into terminals on the cap. Make sure your replacement cap matches this style.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 2585000
Cap Style: Female/Socket, Attachment Style: Clamp-down
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.