Distributor rotor not spinning

[scarecrow]

So I bought a $350 Safari Beige (eww) 1984 318i this past weekend not running. Just started going over the car to see if I can get it running and first off noticed the distributor rotor not spinning. Also how do I get the distributor timed and set correctly?? First car ive owned with a distributor

[arch4ngel]

Does your valve train move when you crank it over?
If not you have a broken timing belt and probably valves too.

[LJ851]

Does your valve train move when you crank it over?
If not you have a broken timing belt and probably valves too.

M10 does not have a timing belt.

I agree, pull the valve cover and see if the cam is rotating.

[arch4ngel]

Doh, reading comprehension fail.
Substitute timing belt for chain, less likely but still possible.

[jeffnhiscars]

Check your motor mounts and make sure your front mounted battery is secure. What happens is that the distributor cap can hit the battery which moves the cap just enough to grab the rotor, stripping the rotors drive nub where it locks in to the distributor shaft.

I keep a spare rotor in my glovebox :)