Check a distributor cap for age & degrading condition Practical Classics is a well edited magazine for classic car enthusiasts with useful technical information and advice. More Get a V8 Distributor Cap from Clive Wheatley mgv8parts. More Posted: 260808 V8 Distributor Cap GDC146 Ian Ailes has seen an article in last month’s issue of Practical Classics which mentions that when the HT leads were removed from a distributor cap, two of the HT lead outlets had broken off due to age and degrading Bakelite. Two more broke away as other HT leads were removed. Ian feels it is well worth checking your distributor cap for fatigue and also carrying a spare in the car as a prudent addition to your pack of replacement parts carried alongside your spare wheel under the luggage platform. You can always repair the car or get it repaired if you have the necessary spares with you.