Distributor shroud/ cover

[Hilltop]

Hi, I have a metal shroud or cover (Haynes call it a screen) on the distributor cap of my 1980 Mk1. This is earthed by a strap. Anyone knows what it's for and it it needs to be there ?

Thanks.

[GT_II]

I would think it is fitted to reduce RF interference. Have you every heard an annoying clicking noise coming through your speakers while you were stopped at traffic lights or moving slowly in a traffic jam? That would have been caused by the ignition system of a car close by being inadequately shielded. Whether anyone would be affected by removing the shield on your distrutor I don't know, but I"m guessing removing it would be a breach of the regulations governing electromagnetic interference.

[Hilltop]

Thanks GT II, that's interesting. I guess I should have explained why I asked about this - well I have restored the car over a few years and can't get it to run properly. I was convinced it was the fuel system and by now have renewed most parts - filler neck, tank, pump, filter, metering head, WUR and injectors. Fuel pressures are now correct and it does run better but still there are still flat spots and hesitation over 3-4,000 rpm under load (and rev counter goes haywire). The ignition system seems good (parts are recent) so I'm running out of ideas. I'll remove the screen to see if it makes any difference although I doubt it.

[chopperoli]

That problem is more likely to be due to bad grounds

[mark1gls]

My rev counter goes mad between 3000 and 4000 and my car drives fine, I’ve had this problem on 2 different Mk1 Scirocco so the rev counter jumping around might not be your problem..?

[jimmy h]

Me too (Rev Counter)