Is there an easy way to remove the split pin that holds the cam gear onto a Merc/GM distributor shaft? I've tried tapping it with a small hammer and nail on the pin but it doesn't want to move. I'm nervous about whacking it very hard and damaging the shaft, even with it mounted in a vice-

you need this you might be able to cut the point off the nail if you use a 3'' sinker nail

c,
Put the distributor on your bench with the gear sitting on a piece of wood. Get a hammer and the proper punch (not a nail) and it will come out.

Bill Koustenis
Advanced Automotive Machine
Waldorf Md

Ditto, just a roll pin, the nail has pointed head so wedges it tighter, you need a flat nosed drift of the correct size and will come right out. Could grind a flat on the end of the nail too maybe in pinch, but drift is the way to go if you can.

The pointed nail wedging the pin makes perfect sense. I've a couple/few punches, don't know why that didn't occur to me-
Thanks again-

mine took a pretty good wack to get started

Even using the right size machine screw with a hammer will work.

The point behing using a "drift" is the material the tool is made from transfers the force from the hammer more directly to the pin and dosen't absorb the force like a nail does. Nails are very soft steel. Drifts are hard tool steel. Big difference.