Can the fuel distributor be dimantaled and cleaned? I was told by a mechanic that I needed a new one. I replaced the original with a used one but the car wouldn't start. When I replaced the original the car ran even worse. Why would it do that?

Don't even take the FD apart, nothing there that cleaning will help. No repair parts availible. Any time a FD sits around w/o being sealed up & special preservative, running problems will happen due to moisture.
When the FD is installed fuel adjustment will have performed, as every one is slightly different.

The only part that can be cleaned is the air flow plate and that can be done with a clean rag soaked with gum cutter or carb cleaner. The rest of it can't be cleaned.

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ASE Master Technician, Lead Technician for Deutsch American Inc. Over 6 years of Import experience-specializing in German Automobiles.